The Flowtime Technique: When Pomodoro Feels Too Rigid

Published on 2025-10-10

We love the Pomodoro Technique here at Purrrductive (obviously!), but we also know that one size doesn't fit all. Have you ever been in the middle of an amazing deep-work session, writing code or crafting an essay, only to have your timer start screaming at you to take a break?

It’s jarring. It breaks your flow. And for some, especially those with ADHD or who thrive on hyperfocus, it can be downright counterproductive.

Enter the Flowtime Technique—Pomodoro’s more chill, flexible cousin.

What is the Flowtime Technique?

Also known as "Flowmodoro," this method was created by Zoe Read-Bivens to solve the exact problem mentioned above: the interruption of flow. Instead of forcing you to work in pre-set 25-minute blocks, Flowtime encourages you to work for as long as you feel focused, and then take a break that corresponds to how long you worked.

It’s about tracking your natural rhythm rather than fighting against a clock.

How to Use the Flowtime Technique

The process is simple, but it requires a bit more self-awareness than Pomodoro.

  1. Pick a Task: Just like Pomodoro, choose one thing to focus on.
  2. Start a Stopwatch: Instead of a countdown timer, use a stopwatch (count-up timer).
  3. Work Until You Need a Break: This is the key. Work until you feel your focus slipping, you get distracted, or you simply feel tired. Whether that’s 15 minutes or 90 minutes, it’s up to your brain.
  4. Stop the Timer and Record: Note down how long you worked.
  5. Take a Break: The length of your break depends on how long you worked.
    • < 25 mins work: Take a 5-minute break.
    • 25-50 mins work: Take an 8-10 minute break.
    • 50-90 mins work: Take a 10-15 minute break.
    • > 90 mins work: Take a 20-30 minute break.

Why It’s Great for ADHD and Creatives

1. Respects Hyperfocus: If you have ADHD, you know that once you enter hyperfocus, stopping is physically painful. Flowtime lets you ride that wave until it crashes naturally, ensuring you get the most out of your high-energy periods.

2. Reduces Anxiety: For some, a ticking countdown timer creates a sense of impending doom. A stopwatch counting up feels like progress, not a deadline.

3. Data-Driven Insights: By recording your session lengths, you start to see patterns. "Oh, I usually crash after 45 minutes in the morning, but I can go for 90 minutes at night." This helps you plan your day around your actual energy levels, not an arbitrary standard.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose Pomodoro if: You have trouble getting started, you procrastinate heavily, or you’re doing boring, repetitive tasks. The rigid structure forces you to begin.
  • Choose Flowtime if: You have trouble stopping, you’re doing creative or complex problem-solving work, or you find timers stressful.

Flowtime with Purrrductive

While Purrrductive is built around the Pomodoro method, you can still use it for Flowtime! Simply set a longer timer duration in the settings (e.g., 90 minutes) to ensure it doesn't interrupt you, and then manually pause the session when you feel your flow breaking. You'll still earn your rewards and grow your pet, all while working in a way that suits your brain best.

Productivity is personal. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the rhythm that makes you purrr!