Carys Isleib / February 16, 2023
Is It Essential to Take Breaks?
Have you ever wondered whether it is effective and efficient to either push through your work assignments consecutively or complete them in small chunks throughout your workday? Most employees in the workplace do not take breaks. They will even work during their lunch breaks if they can. It is common for people to overwork themselves and end up feeling burnt out by the end of the day. It is easy to get sucked into a work assignment for hours upon hours. Although most businesses do not require work breaks, however, it is essential for employees’ well-being to carve out times to take breaks throughout their workday.
Top Benefits
So, what are the benefits of taking breaks at work? As there are many benefits of taking breaks at work, I will point out three benefits that may convince you to prioritize taking breaks at work. Three benefits of taking breaks at work are: allows you to refocus, enhances employee engagement, and allows you to re-evaluate your goals.
1. Allows You to Refocus
The first benefit of taking breaks at work is that it allows you to refocus. Allowing yourself to step away from your many assignments and taking a deep breath can help you refreshen your mind. Not allowing yourself to have breaks throughout your day is not healthy for your mental well-being, and causes you to eventually feel burnt out from work, which can decrease your performance levels. Once you have taken a step back from your duties, you can come back feeling refreshed and ready to complete your assignments.
2. Enhance Employee Engagement
The second benefit of taking a break at work is that it can enhance employee engagement. Engaging with your fellow employees can allow you to create a community in the workplace. Taking breaks and engaging with others can reduce stress, improve mental health, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. These benefits lead you to job satisfaction and employee engagement.
3. Re-evaluate Goals
The third benefit of taking breaks at work can allow you to re-evaluate your goals. Going into the workplace without goals to accomplish can leave you feeling blind and feeling stressed. Allow yourself to set goals by saying, “I am going to complete these tasks today and allow myself to do ___ while on break…” this can help you have an outline for your day and feel at ease. Not having goals can make your day seem out of focus and lead you to feel unsure about what you should be doing.
How Can I Make The Most Out of My Breaks?
You can make the most out of your breaks by doing something that you enjoy or need! You could read a book, go on a walk, do some yoga, spend time with a friend, eat a snack, or re-evaluate your goals. It is beneficial to your mental health and your work-life balance by doing something you enjoy while working, so you do not end up feeling burnt out by the end of the workday.
Final Thoughts
I hope this blog allowed you to see the benefits of giving yourself a break throughout your workday and allowing time to yourself! Mental health and having a healthy work-life balance are so important and can improve your work performance. Breathe, meditate, exercise, and spend time with others!
