When you’re staring down a big set of tasks with an hour (or more) to get it all done, it can feel overwhelming—like the work will never end. That’s where the Pomodoro Method comes in.

This simple time management technique helps you break down your workload into manageable chunks, making it easier to start, stay focused, and make steady progress. Breaking things down is a theme I often come back to—it’s a strategy I use myself and with my clients to tackle big projects one step at a time.

What Is the Pomodoro Method?

Here’s how the Pomodoro Method works…
✅ Choose a Task: Pick one specific task to focus on.
✅ Set a Timer: Traditionally, it’s 25 minutes, but adjust as needed.
✅ Work Without Distractions: Avoid interruptions—no emails, no multitasking.
✅ Take a Short Break: When the timer goes off, pause for 5 minutes to recharge.
✅ Repeat: After four Pomodoro sessions, take a longer break (15–30 minutes).

This method is especially helpful for easing the overwhelm of a long to-do list. The structure creates a sense of accomplishment after each session, making it feel like you’re making constant progress.

Why It Works: Fighting Parkinson’s Law

The Pomodoro Method also counters Parkinson’s Law, which says: “Work expands to fill the time available for its completion.”

In other words, if you give yourself all day to finish a task, it will take all day—even if it could have been done in two hours.

We’ve all seen this happen, especially with kids and homework. If they have a week to write a one-page report, it often takes the entire week. A bit of brainstorming, some procrastination, and finally, a last-minute rush the night before it’s due. Sound familiar?

The same principle applies to your coaching business. If you allow yourself all week to create content, guess what? You’ll likely finish it at the last minute. Instead, use time blocking to allocate specific time slots for your work, and break those blocks into smaller Pomodoro sessions if needed.

Adapting the Method to Fit Your Life

Of course, not everyone’s schedule allows for uninterrupted work. I’ve heard plenty of valid objections to the Pomodoro Method, like frequent interruptions, too many client sessions, or an unpredictable calendar.

Even so, the Pomodoro Method can be flexible. The key is finding a rhythm that works for you.

For example, my wife and I use a version of it with our kids when they feel overwhelmed by homework. We’ll say, “Pick the most important task and work on it for 20 minutes.” That small chunk of time helps them get started, and over multiple sessions, they complete everything without stress.

My Personal Twist on the Pomodoro Method

I’ve unintentionally adapted the Pomodoro Method to fit my workflow. Instead of a timer, I let my hydration routine guide me. I drink water while I work, and when I need a bathroom break, that becomes my natural stopping point.

It might sound uneventful, but it works. Sometimes, my break comes in the middle of a time block; other times, it’s between blocks. Either way, knowing a break is coming helps me stay focused.

And as a bonus? This approach keeps me hydrated. Win-win!