The Pomodoro method is based on short, manageable work blocks and a strict system of work intervals and breaks. Critics find this system too inflexible and, particularly when it comes to larger tasks, they see it rather as an obstacle.
For example, if you are writing a fairly long text, you might have just gotten into your writing flow when the 25 minutes are up. According to the Pomodoro technique, you would have to take a break. However, this can interrupt the creative thought process and have a counterproductive effect. In these cases, it may be useful to experiment with longer intervals, for example 50 minutes.
Also, not everyone manages to keep enough time free to actually finish four Pomodori in a row. For example, if you want to work undisturbed on a project for only about an hour after your other colleagues have gone home, you will only be doing half a Pomodoro session and, strictly speaking, are no longer following the Pomodoro principle.
Others criticize that the limited time and the ticking timer create additional stress factors. Instead of working in a more concentrated way, some people might be tempted to glance at the hourglass or the app more often. In this case, the Pomodoro technique itself creates a permanent distraction.
While the Pomodoro method can increase productivity and help overcome distractions and multitasking, it does not work for everyone or in every context.
To find out if you benefit from the method, you should take a few days to become familiar with the system. The good news: If you find that you can’t cope with the Pomodoro technique, there are plenty of other productivity techniques, such as the ALPEN method or the Eisenhower matrix which you can use to improve your working processes.