We’ve all had those moments—times when the work we need to do outstrips the time we have to do it in. Maybe you’re a university student who left their final dissertation until the last minute. Perhaps you’ve been on vacation and now have to catch up with a mountain of work. Or maybe time management isn’t your strongest skill (don’t worry, it’s a learnable one) and now you’re feeling the crunch.
We’ve all been there. While we could remind you to plan ahead, manage your deadlines, renegotiate with your boss, or delegate your plans more effectively, none of that advice really helps when you’re in the thick of it right now.
This post focuses on how to power through a heavy workload without sacrificing your health—because no matter how urgent things seem, your well-being is always more important than any deadline or consequence.
With that in mind, here are some practical tips to help you manage:
Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique can keep you productive while you avoid the strain of burnout. No, you don’t need actual tomatoes (even though “pomodoro” is Italian for tomato). When Cirillo invented this method in the 1980s, he named it after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used to manage his tasks.
The concept is simple: Work for 25-minute sessions, followed by a five-minute break—giving you about 10 minutes of rest per hour. This structure helps maintain focus while giving your brain the cognitive release it needs during intense sessions. It’s a proven way to stay productive without running yourself into the ground.
Have a Good, Nourishing Meal
Your brain needs fuel to operate at its best. A meal with protein, healthy fats, and some carbs can sharpen your focus and improve clarity—critical for handling big tasks. You don’t have to be a gourmet chef. Something quick, like a salad with grilled chicken, will do the trick. Just make sure you’re consuming enough calories to keep going.
If you need a little boost, try some coffee or green tea (which provides a smoother energy lift). Supplements like Vitamin D or nootropics from liquid solutions at Science.bio can also support cognitive function, helping you stay sharp and work in sync with your body instead of fighting against it.
Set Up a Distraction-Free Environment
Depending on your situation, creating a distraction-free space may be more or less challenging. If you can, try to carve out a spot where interruptions are minimized. Close the door to your office, pop on some noise-canceling headphones, or set your phone to “Do Not Disturb,” allowing only emergency contacts to get through.
If possible, communicate with those around you—let them know you need uninterrupted time to work. This simple step can help you focus fully on your tasks without needing to constantly manage outside distractions.
With these tips, you’ll be better equipped to handle your workload thoughtfully and efficiently. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get things done—it’s to do it in a way that preserves your health and sanity. Happy working!