Increase your productivity by taking a break
That’s right! Does it sound weird? Taking breaks boosts both your productivity and your creativity and is the best thing you can do when you feel overwhelmed by your tasks or simply out of inspiration. It may seem counterintuitive to stop working when you have a lot on your hands and you may feel tempted to power through your workload just to be done with it sooner, but this will only slow you down and exhaust you. It is now a well known scientific fact that breaks are absolutely necessary several times a working day. But how often should you take one? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. There are several theories that you can go by or you can of course follow your own rhythm and take a break when you feel the need to. However, let’s take a look at what science says:
OK, so you plan to take a break soon. What to do, what to do…? You only have a short time at your disposal, so it’s best to know how you’ll be spending it in advance. It’s also important to spend it wisely, because you want to make the best of it, not return to your tasks with your energy tank even emptier. So, what break activities bring you the most benefits?
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- Moving your body – from a short walk to actual exercise, any form of physical activity will do you good. You can also do some stretching or a short yoga session. Just get out of your chair! It will get your blood moving and pump oxygen to your brain. Let’s see those endorphins!
- Getting a snack – intellectual work burns calories, too, you know! So it’s normal to feel hungry even if all you do is sit in front of a computer all day long. When you take a break, have a light snack if you feel your energy is running low. Healthy options are fruit, yoghurt, nuts, veggies, or a protein bar.
- Having an actual coffee break – or a tea break, or a water break. You get it. Getting a drink is an excellent opportunity to get together with your coworkers and chat the break away. Just make sure you don’t fall into the trap of discussing work issues. ‘Cause then it wouldn’t be an actual break.
- Going outside – changing the scenery is very helpful when you want to take a break. Trading the dull setting of the office for a green park or the mountain landscape you can admire on the rooftop is beneficial not only to your eyes, but also to your brain, lungs, and mind.
- Meditating or just daydreaming – both are really pleasant activities and NOT a waste of time. Taking just a few minutes to free your mind will help you disconnect from any daily burden. The benefits of meditation are scientifically proven, but good old-fashioned daydreaming will also get you in a better mood and relax your neurons.
So many benefits and so much to do on your break… However, finding the right time to take a break and not feeling guilty about it is not always easy. So, just to avoid the temptation of overworking, make sure to schedule your breaks in advance. This way, when the “bell rings”, you have no option but to abandon everything and take some much deserved time off.
