I found that they worked well early, but have mostly lost their power. I think I might try them again, but tweak the length of the work and break cycles - maybe longer cycles of both. The problem for me is finding something to do that works in 5 minute chunks that's both relaxing (not work) and energizing (gives you the ability to work more), but isn't so compelling that you take an extra long break to keep doing your break activity.
I find that, even if I mostly ignore them, I still work more and better with Pomodoros. But my baseline level of work is pretty bad.
This is the public group instrumental rationality diary for the week of October 1st. It's a place to record and chat about it if you have done, or are actively doing, things like:
Or anything else interesting which you want to share, so that other people can think about it, and perhaps be inspired to take action themselves. Try to include enough details so that everyone can use each other's experiences to learn about what tends to work out, and what doesn't tend to work out.
Thanks to everyone who contributes!
Previous diary; archive of prior diaries.