Hey, Reader!

I’ve been experimenting with a little tweak lately that’s quietly changing how I get things done.

It’s 25 minutes of pure focus on one task—no timer break afterward, no forced 5-minute stretch, just move straight to the next 25-minute block when I’m ready.

Before you think “that’s just Pomodoro without the breaks,” let me be clear: it’s not. Pomodoro’s built-in pause is great for some people, but I’ve found that stopping every 25 minutes actually interrupts my flow more than it helps. When I’m locked in, I want to ride that wave, not hit pause and lose it.

Here’s what a recent morning looked like:

• 25 minutes reading a book that’s stretching my thinking
• 25 minutes engaging thoughtfully on Substack (comments, not mindless scrolling)
• 25 minutes reaching out to event organizers for speaking opportunities​

Each block felt complete, but there was no jarring break—just a natural shift when the energy told me it was time.

A few things I’ve noticed (the good and the potential weak spots)

It feels achievable. 25 minutes is short enough that even on low-energy days, I can say “just this” and start. That lowers the activation energy, which is half the battle.

It fights perfectionism. Because the window is small, I don’t have time to overthink or polish endlessly. Done beats perfect every time.

It’s flexible within limits. I don’t chain 10 blocks back-to-back like a robot. If I finish early or need a longer pause, I take it. The 25 is a container, not a cage.

But here’s where it’s not perfect for everyone:

• If you’re someone who really needs that 5-minute reset to avoid burnout, this could feel too intense. Listen to your body—25 on + 5 off is still a valid rhythm.
• It can seem rigid at first glance. I worried it might turn into another “system” that adds complexity (and we both know complexity is the gateway to procrastination). So I keep reminding myself: this is an experiment, not a rule. If it stops serving me, I’ll change it.
• It’s tactical, not soul-deep. This is a tool, not the answer to “why am I here?” or “what’s my calling?” If you’re in a season of deeper questioning, pair this with reflection time, not as a replacement.

Right now, though, it’s working. I’m getting more meaningful work done in fewer hours, and I’m not walking around feeling like I’m “behind” all day. That alone is worth the test.

So here’s your invitation: try 25 minutes on one meaningful task today—no break, no timer drama, just focused effort. See how it feels. If it clicks, stack another block when you’re ready. If it doesn’t, no guilt—grace is part of the process.

What’s the one thing you’d love to give 25 focused minutes to today? Reply and tell me. I read every one.

And if you want help figuring out what deserves those 25 minutes most right now, reply with your biggest current blocker. I’ll personally book you a 5-minute Clarity Fit Chat to sort through it.

You’ve got this.

Mark
Mister Productivity
Host of The Mister Productivity Podcast (listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts).