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A stylized circular timer illustration with a pink gradient section, a black section, and a pink heart in the center, symbolizing balance, time, and gentle productivity with the Reverse Pomodoro Technique.
February 15, 2023

Reverse Pomodoro | 5-minute productivity hack

Beat executive dysfunction with the Reverse Pomodoro Technique. Start tasks in 5-minute bursts to reduce overwhelm and build momentum.

Beaux Miebach

Beaux is Tiimo’s Inclusion and Belonging Lead, a queer, multiply neurodivergent educator and strategist focused on accessibility and care.

Meet the author
No items found.

We’ve all been there: staring at a task we’ve put off for far too long, feeling the weight of it grow heavier by the minute. The hardest part? Getting started. That’s where the Reverse Pomodoro Technique comes in.

This ADHD-friendly approach to productivity isn’t about working harder or for longer stretches of time. Instead, it helps you take a tiny first step, gain momentum, and gently ease into tasks—making progress feel achievable, not overwhelming.

Let’s break it down: what the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is, why it works (with some science to back it up), and how you can make it work for you.

What is the Reverse Pomodoro Technique?

Inspired by Francesco Cirillo’s original Pomodoro Method—which involves working in 25-minute chunks followed by short breaks—the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is a kinder, more flexible spin. Instead of committing to a full 25 minutes upfront, you start small.

Really small. Just 5 minutes.

The goal isn’t to finish your task. It’s simply to start. This method is ideal for anyone who struggles with task initiation, executive dysfunction, or feeling overwhelmed by big projects. By breaking the barrier to starting, you can unlock momentum and make progress, no matter how small.

Why it works: the science behind starting small

Ever heard the phrase, “A body in motion stays in motion”? That’s physics, sure—but it’s also true for our brains. When we’re stuck in a cycle of procrastination or avoidance, the act of starting—even for just 5 minutes—can create the momentum needed to keep going. Here’s why:

It reduces overwhelm

Our brains tend to see unfinished tasks as larger and scarier than they really are. Breaking it down into a tiny, manageable step shrinks the task down to size, helping you feel more in control.

It activates the Zeigarnik Effect

This is the psychological tendency to want to finish what we’ve started. Once you’ve begun, even if it’s just for 5 minutes, your brain naturally wants to continue.

It boosts dopamine

Completing a small step triggers a release of dopamine—the brain’s feel-good chemical—reinforcing the idea that effort is rewarding.

It creates positive habits

Small, consistent starts build neural pathways that make task initiation easier over time.

It conserves energy

For those managing chronic conditions, mental health challenges, or neurodivergence, starting small respects your energy levels while still allowing for progress.

A person holding a smartphone displaying Tiimo’s Focus Timer, set for a weekly meeting, while carrying two takeaway coffee cups in a tray, illustrating productivity on the go.

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Start your 7-day free trial and experience the benefits of simplified time management and focus.

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How to use the Reverse Pomodoro Technique

Pick a task

Choose something you’ve been avoiding. It could be a big project like writing a report or a small daily task like tidying your desk.

Set a timer for 5 minutes

Keep it simple. Use a timer on your phone or a physical one—whatever works for you.

Just start

Begin the task with no pressure to finish it. Remember: this is about starting, not completing.

Decide what’s next

When the timer goes off, check in with yourself. Do you want to keep going? Great. Need a break? Take one, guilt-free.

Experiment and adjust

Everyone’s brain works differently. Play around with the timing, break lengths, and task types to find what fits your energy levels and needs.

Why it’s a game-changer for ADHD'ers

For people with many ADHD'ers, starting tasks can feel particularly overwhelming. Executive dysfunctioning differences, time agnosia, and perfectionism often make tasks seem impossible to begin. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique offers a neuroinclusive solution by meeting you where you are.

By starting with a manageable 5 minutes, this method reduces the pressure to get it “just right” and helps build momentum on your own terms. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to fluctuating energy levels or focus challenges.

Tips for making it work

Be kind to yourself

Some days, even 5 minutes might feel too hard. That’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, and rest is productive too.

Make breaks intentional

Use your breaks to recharge—not as an excuse to doomscroll on social media. Try stretching, grabbing a snack, or simply taking a moment to breathe.

Celebrate small wins

Whether you’ve worked for 5 minutes or 15, every bit of progress is worth acknowledging.

Adapt as needed

Not every method works for every person in every situation. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique is about flexibility—adjust it to suit your needs.

Why starting small matters

The Reverse Pomodoro Technique isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating a system that works with your brain, not against it. By starting small, you give yourself permission to ease into tasks, build confidence, and make progress at a pace that feels sustainable. So, the next time you’re stuck staring at that dreaded task, remember: all it takes is 5 minutes to get started.

February 15, 2023

Reverse Pomodoro | 5-minute productivity hack

Beat executive dysfunction with the Reverse Pomodoro Technique. Start tasks in 5-minute bursts to reduce overwhelm and build momentum.

Beaux Miebach

Beaux is Tiimo’s Inclusion and Belonging Lead, a queer, multiply neurodivergent educator and strategist focused on accessibility and care.

Meet the author
No items found.

We’ve all been there: staring at a task we’ve put off for far too long, feeling the weight of it grow heavier by the minute. The hardest part? Getting started. That’s where the Reverse Pomodoro Technique comes in.

This ADHD-friendly approach to productivity isn’t about working harder or for longer stretches of time. Instead, it helps you take a tiny first step, gain momentum, and gently ease into tasks—making progress feel achievable, not overwhelming.

Let’s break it down: what the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is, why it works (with some science to back it up), and how you can make it work for you.

What is the Reverse Pomodoro Technique?

Inspired by Francesco Cirillo’s original Pomodoro Method—which involves working in 25-minute chunks followed by short breaks—the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is a kinder, more flexible spin. Instead of committing to a full 25 minutes upfront, you start small.

Really small. Just 5 minutes.

The goal isn’t to finish your task. It’s simply to start. This method is ideal for anyone who struggles with task initiation, executive dysfunction, or feeling overwhelmed by big projects. By breaking the barrier to starting, you can unlock momentum and make progress, no matter how small.

Why it works: the science behind starting small

Ever heard the phrase, “A body in motion stays in motion”? That’s physics, sure—but it’s also true for our brains. When we’re stuck in a cycle of procrastination or avoidance, the act of starting—even for just 5 minutes—can create the momentum needed to keep going. Here’s why:

It reduces overwhelm

Our brains tend to see unfinished tasks as larger and scarier than they really are. Breaking it down into a tiny, manageable step shrinks the task down to size, helping you feel more in control.

It activates the Zeigarnik Effect

This is the psychological tendency to want to finish what we’ve started. Once you’ve begun, even if it’s just for 5 minutes, your brain naturally wants to continue.

It boosts dopamine

Completing a small step triggers a release of dopamine—the brain’s feel-good chemical—reinforcing the idea that effort is rewarding.

It creates positive habits

Small, consistent starts build neural pathways that make task initiation easier over time.

It conserves energy

For those managing chronic conditions, mental health challenges, or neurodivergence, starting small respects your energy levels while still allowing for progress.

A person holding a smartphone displaying Tiimo’s Focus Timer, set for a weekly meeting, while carrying two takeaway coffee cups in a tray, illustrating productivity on the go.

Ready to simplify your planning?

Start your 7-day free trial and experience the benefits of simplified time management and focus.

Apple logo
Get started on App Store
Google logo
Get started on Google Play

How to use the Reverse Pomodoro Technique

Pick a task

Choose something you’ve been avoiding. It could be a big project like writing a report or a small daily task like tidying your desk.

Set a timer for 5 minutes

Keep it simple. Use a timer on your phone or a physical one—whatever works for you.

Just start

Begin the task with no pressure to finish it. Remember: this is about starting, not completing.

Decide what’s next

When the timer goes off, check in with yourself. Do you want to keep going? Great. Need a break? Take one, guilt-free.

Experiment and adjust

Everyone’s brain works differently. Play around with the timing, break lengths, and task types to find what fits your energy levels and needs.

Why it’s a game-changer for ADHD'ers

For people with many ADHD'ers, starting tasks can feel particularly overwhelming. Executive dysfunctioning differences, time agnosia, and perfectionism often make tasks seem impossible to begin. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique offers a neuroinclusive solution by meeting you where you are.

By starting with a manageable 5 minutes, this method reduces the pressure to get it “just right” and helps build momentum on your own terms. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to fluctuating energy levels or focus challenges.

Tips for making it work

Be kind to yourself

Some days, even 5 minutes might feel too hard. That’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, and rest is productive too.

Make breaks intentional

Use your breaks to recharge—not as an excuse to doomscroll on social media. Try stretching, grabbing a snack, or simply taking a moment to breathe.

Celebrate small wins

Whether you’ve worked for 5 minutes or 15, every bit of progress is worth acknowledging.

Adapt as needed

Not every method works for every person in every situation. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique is about flexibility—adjust it to suit your needs.

Why starting small matters

The Reverse Pomodoro Technique isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating a system that works with your brain, not against it. By starting small, you give yourself permission to ease into tasks, build confidence, and make progress at a pace that feels sustainable. So, the next time you’re stuck staring at that dreaded task, remember: all it takes is 5 minutes to get started.

Reverse Pomodoro | 5-minute productivity hack
February 15, 2023

Reverse Pomodoro | 5-minute productivity hack

Beat executive dysfunction with the Reverse Pomodoro Technique. Start tasks in 5-minute bursts to reduce overwhelm and build momentum.

Georgina Shute

Georgina is an ADHD coach and digital leader. She set up KindTwo to empower as many people as possible to work with Neurodiversity - not against it.

No items found.

We’ve all been there: staring at a task we’ve put off for far too long, feeling the weight of it grow heavier by the minute. The hardest part? Getting started. That’s where the Reverse Pomodoro Technique comes in.

This ADHD-friendly approach to productivity isn’t about working harder or for longer stretches of time. Instead, it helps you take a tiny first step, gain momentum, and gently ease into tasks—making progress feel achievable, not overwhelming.

Let’s break it down: what the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is, why it works (with some science to back it up), and how you can make it work for you.

What is the Reverse Pomodoro Technique?

Inspired by Francesco Cirillo’s original Pomodoro Method—which involves working in 25-minute chunks followed by short breaks—the Reverse Pomodoro Technique is a kinder, more flexible spin. Instead of committing to a full 25 minutes upfront, you start small.

Really small. Just 5 minutes.

The goal isn’t to finish your task. It’s simply to start. This method is ideal for anyone who struggles with task initiation, executive dysfunction, or feeling overwhelmed by big projects. By breaking the barrier to starting, you can unlock momentum and make progress, no matter how small.

Why it works: the science behind starting small

Ever heard the phrase, “A body in motion stays in motion”? That’s physics, sure—but it’s also true for our brains. When we’re stuck in a cycle of procrastination or avoidance, the act of starting—even for just 5 minutes—can create the momentum needed to keep going. Here’s why:

It reduces overwhelm

Our brains tend to see unfinished tasks as larger and scarier than they really are. Breaking it down into a tiny, manageable step shrinks the task down to size, helping you feel more in control.

It activates the Zeigarnik Effect

This is the psychological tendency to want to finish what we’ve started. Once you’ve begun, even if it’s just for 5 minutes, your brain naturally wants to continue.

It boosts dopamine

Completing a small step triggers a release of dopamine—the brain’s feel-good chemical—reinforcing the idea that effort is rewarding.

It creates positive habits

Small, consistent starts build neural pathways that make task initiation easier over time.

It conserves energy

For those managing chronic conditions, mental health challenges, or neurodivergence, starting small respects your energy levels while still allowing for progress.

How to use the Reverse Pomodoro Technique

Pick a task

Choose something you’ve been avoiding. It could be a big project like writing a report or a small daily task like tidying your desk.

Set a timer for 5 minutes

Keep it simple. Use a timer on your phone or a physical one—whatever works for you.

Just start

Begin the task with no pressure to finish it. Remember: this is about starting, not completing.

Decide what’s next

When the timer goes off, check in with yourself. Do you want to keep going? Great. Need a break? Take one, guilt-free.

Experiment and adjust

Everyone’s brain works differently. Play around with the timing, break lengths, and task types to find what fits your energy levels and needs.

Why it’s a game-changer for ADHD'ers

For people with many ADHD'ers, starting tasks can feel particularly overwhelming. Executive dysfunctioning differences, time agnosia, and perfectionism often make tasks seem impossible to begin. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique offers a neuroinclusive solution by meeting you where you are.

By starting with a manageable 5 minutes, this method reduces the pressure to get it “just right” and helps build momentum on your own terms. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to fluctuating energy levels or focus challenges.

Tips for making it work

Be kind to yourself

Some days, even 5 minutes might feel too hard. That’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, and rest is productive too.

Make breaks intentional

Use your breaks to recharge—not as an excuse to doomscroll on social media. Try stretching, grabbing a snack, or simply taking a moment to breathe.

Celebrate small wins

Whether you’ve worked for 5 minutes or 15, every bit of progress is worth acknowledging.

Adapt as needed

Not every method works for every person in every situation. The Reverse Pomodoro Technique is about flexibility—adjust it to suit your needs.

Why starting small matters

The Reverse Pomodoro Technique isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating a system that works with your brain, not against it. By starting small, you give yourself permission to ease into tasks, build confidence, and make progress at a pace that feels sustainable. So, the next time you’re stuck staring at that dreaded task, remember: all it takes is 5 minutes to get started.

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