Ever have days when you can’t focus no matter what? Try the pomodoro technique:

1. choose a task to focus on 100% for 25 minutes (and we really mean 100%)
2. set a 25-minute timer
3. work on the task until the timer rings. Don’t let anything distract you. If your mind wanders, you can make a quick note about it (on paper or device), but stick to your task!
4. when the timer rings, set it again, for a 5-minute break. Rest, take a walk, check in with a friend, deal with that distraction you noted during your 25 minutes, or whatever you want to do
5. once you’ve completed four 25-minute “poms,” take a longer break of 20-30 minutes

Play around and make the technique your own. Some people like to do shorter or longer poms—maybe 15 or 45 minutes. Or you might find that poms help you warm up, but after that you don’t want to time yourself. Discover what works for you!