Time Management

The Pomodoro Technique

We often feel that we don't have enough time or can't concentrate at work. The Pomodoro Technique can effectively solve these problems. Curious about the name? Actually, this method is very simple: you just work for 25 minutes, then rest for 5 minutes, and repeat this cycle. Why is it called the Pomodoro Technique? Because its creator Francesco Cirillo used a tomato-shaped timer when he was a student, hence this cute name.

This technique works well because it utilizes our brain's natural rhythm. 25 minutes is long enough for someone to focus on completing a task, but not so long that it causes fatigue. The short break allows the brain to relax, reduces fatigue, and improves work efficiency. During this process, you'll find your concentration greatly improved because you know there's a short break waiting for you after 25 minutes.

I find this technique very useful, especially when I need to concentrate for long periods. You can try it - when you enter a Pomodoro session, you'll find yourself more focused on the task at hand. Don't slack off during break times; use them to rest your eyes, stretch, or make a cup of tea - these are all good choices. Often, we ignore our body's needs while working, and these short breaks allow us to readjust and improve subsequent work efficiency.

For example, during breaks, you can close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to give your brain a brief rest. Or, stand up and walk around, stretch your body to help blood circulation. This not only relieves fatigue but also prevents discomfort from sitting for long periods.

Daily Planning

Do you feel like you're constantly spinning like a top with so many things to do each day? Actually, making a daily plan can help you clear your thoughts and improve efficiency. You can list out everything you need to do for the day and then prioritize them. Which tasks must be completed today, which can be pushed to tomorrow, and which are flexible? This makes everything clear at a glance.

Making a daily plan isn't just about writing things down; it's about prioritizing these tasks. You can use tools like notebooks, phone apps, or sticky notes. First, determine which tasks must be completed that day, such as important work meetings or project components that must be finished. Then, put the tasks that can be delayed later, so you can focus more on the day's essential tasks.

I remember when I first started as a blogger, I often forgot writing inspirations or forgot to reply to readers' comments. After I started using daily plans, spending 5 minutes every morning listing what needs to be done, my efficiency improved greatly. You can try it too, and I believe you'll discover its benefits. This way, you not only ensure important things aren't forgotten but also gain a sense of achievement after completing tasks, which really helps boost work enthusiasm.

For example, before starting your day, you can take a few minutes to quietly consider your tasks. Categorize these tasks by urgency and importance. Handle urgent and important tasks first, followed by important but non-urgent tasks, and finally urgent but unimportant tasks. Through this sorting, you can effectively arrange your time and ensure work is completed efficiently.

Home Repairs

Unclogging Drains

Does a clogged drain at home give you a headache? Actually, you don't need to call a professional right away. There's a simple and practical method - using a plunger. You just need to place the plunger over the drain opening, ensure it's completely covered, then quickly push and pull up and down to use water pressure to flush away the blockage.

The key to this method is using changes in water pressure to remove the clog. When you quickly push and pull the plunger, the pressure difference created can flush the blockage from the drain. This process might need to be repeated several times, especially if the blockage is stubborn.

I've tried this method many times, especially when hair or kitchen waste clogs the drain, and it works very well. Remember to add some water to the drain before using the plunger to ensure it can create a seal. The water level should be moderate - not too little that the plunger can't create pressure, and not too much that it overflows.

For example, when you notice water flow slowing in your bathroom or kitchen, first check if it's due to hair, food residue, or other blockages. If so, you can immediately grab the plunger and follow the above method to unclog it. If it doesn't work the first time, repeat several times until the blockage is flushed away.

Minor Repairs

There are always small problems around the house, like burnt-out light bulbs or leaky faucets. Actually, we can solve these problems ourselves without calling professionals. Changing a light bulb is simple - just make sure the power is off, then unscrew the old bulb and replace it with a new one. As for fixing leaks, if it's a faucet issue, it might just be a worn washer - you can buy a new one from the hardware store and fix it in just a few minutes.

When replacing light bulbs, first ensure the power is off to prevent electric shock. A bulb might stop working due to long-term use or poor contact. When replacing, make sure the specifications and wattage of the new bulb match the original. Faucet leaks are usually caused by aging or worn internal washers, and replacing the washer is the most direct solution.

I often encounter these small problems in my own home, and I was also flustered at first. Later I found that these minor repairs not only save money but also give you more control over your home. Give it a try - you'll find you're actually quite capable. Minor repairs not only solve problems but also give you a sense of achievement, making you more confident in handling other small issues in life.

For example, when you find a light bulb not working, first check if the power is on, then consider if it's a bulb issue. If a faucet is leaking, first turn off the water supply, then disassemble the faucet to check if the washer inside is worn. If it is, you can buy a new one from the hardware store and install it in the original position to solve the problem.

Kitchen Tips

Reducing Tears When Cutting Onions

Does crying while cutting onions frustrate you? Actually, there are two tips that can help reduce tears. First, refrigerate the onion for 30 minutes before cutting, as cold temperatures reduce the irritating gases released. Second, you can wear goggles - it might sound funny, but it really works.

Refrigerating onions lowers their temperature, reducing the irritating substances released when cells break. Wearing goggles directly prevents these substances from entering your eyes. Both methods effectively reduce tear production.

The first time I tried the refrigeration method, it really reduced tears significantly. Goggles are also a good method, especially when busy in the kitchen, as you don't have to worry about tears blurring your vision. Try these tips, and you'll find that cutting onions is no longer a painful task.

For example, before cooking, you can refrigerate the onion for about 30 minutes, which will noticeably reduce tears when cutting. If you frequently need to cut onions in the kitchen, buying a pair of protective glasses is also a good choice - not only does it protect your eyes, but it also allows you to focus more on the task at hand while cutting onions.

Simplifying Cooking

Cooking can sometimes feel complicated, but there are techniques to simplify the process. Advance preparation and batch cooking are two great tricks. For instance, you can prepare ingredients for the week on weekends - washing and cutting them, then storing them in the refrigerator, so you don't have to start from scratch on weekdays. Batch cooking means cooking larger portions, with leftovers stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy reheating later.

Preparing ingredients in advance can greatly reduce cooking preparation time. For example, you can spend a few hours on weekends washing and cutting vegetables, marinating meat, so weekday cooking only requires simple combining and heating. Batch cooking utilizes the time you're already in the kitchen to cook extra portions for refrigeration or freezing, saving cooking time later.

I'm a lazy person, and after using these two techniques, cooking became my relaxation time rather than a burden. I hope you can find enjoyment in it too. Through this approach, you can enjoy the pleasure of cooking rather than seeing it merely as a task that must be completed.

For example, on weekends, you can cook a large pot of rice and divide it into small portions for freezing. When needed, just take it out and heat it up. Similarly, you can make a batch of freezer-friendly dishes like stir-fries and soups. This way, on busy workdays, you can easily prepare a delicious meal.