In an earlier post, I mentioned the Pomodoro Technique of time management and whether it is for you. Now if it’s not for you, then what else can you use? Behold – The Flowtime Technique. Let’s discuss about it.
What is the Flowtime Technique?
The above image explains this method in quite simple terms. If you are in a ‘flow’ state, you continue doing your tasks until you are no longer in that state. Let me explain the meaning of this ‘flow’. Has it ever happened to you that when you are doing some work you are really focused and absorbed in your work, and you don’t feel tired easily? If yes, then that’s the state of ‘flow’. If not, then please choose a work that you find interesting honestly. You don’t have to put much effort trying to motivate yourself to do work in this ‘flow’ state. You also feel like you aren’t getting tired when in flow. So, you just have to go with the flow, and you’ll be able to do your work in a focused manner.
In Flowtime Technique, you do your work until you reach the ‘flow’ state and continue your work till you are no longer in that state. After that you take a break and then continue the work until you have exhausted the ‘flow’ state again. This is unlike the Pomodoro Technique, where you have to take a break after 25 minutes of work regardless of whether you are tired or not. In Flowtime you have the control over the time allotted to both work and breaks.
Thing to keep in mind when using this method.
- Make sure that you are sitting in a comfortable position. Don't come complaining to me about your back pain after you sit and study for 5 hours straight.
- Keep a water bottle with you so you don't get dehydrated. It is common sense but trust me, you'll forget food and water when you're immersed in your work.
- Make a priority list for your work for better efficiency.
- Do not forget to take breaks for enough time to refresh your mind or else your mental fatigue will cost you your efficiency and motivation.
Why and When I use this technique?
I use this technique when I don’t have to work under the pressure of doing a lot in very less time. I use the Pomodoro Technique in such circumstances. When I’m free to do things however I like, I use Flowtime. It’s because getting into the ‘flow’ state is not that easy. For example, if I have an exam in a few days, then I use Pomodoro because it is better for disciplined work. Flowtime is better for enthusiastic work. So, I end up using the Flowtime a lot.
You should use Flowtime only if you are able to attain the ‘flow’ state. Stick to Pomodoro if getting into the ‘flow’ is difficult for you. If you don’t have much problem getting into the ‘flow’ state, then you can use Flowtime every time you study/work. But if you are like me who can get into ‘flow’ state but not that easily, then try to use Flowtime only when you don’t have an approaching deadline.
Conclusion.
The Flowtime Technique works best for people who are motivated and don’t have problem getting into the ‘flow’ state. You need to choose the method of time management based on your personality and mood. I hope this blog helped you get acquainted with the Flowtime Technique. Check out my other blogs too!
Thank you for reading!