Is this you?
You get up from your desk and take small breaks throughout the day regularly? You do a few minutes of exercise or stretching every hour or two? You often eat lunch outside in the nearby park, under a tree or just spend time outdoors in the fresh air. And if you can’t leave your office, you at least leave your desk every now and then.
Great, you are looking after yourself both mentally and physically – and setting a positive example for others to follow.
Or are you "too busy" to take a break?
If this is you, you are not alone.
As a wellbeing professional, I see this all too often. People feel guilty or even anxious, about taking regular breaks. Especially, if the organisation has a "eat lunch at your desk" culture. Being busy is often glorified and people feel pressured to always have a full work schedule. Being busy makes people feel important.
Unfortunately, this unhealthy attitude is a shortcut to burnout.
Your brain can only take so much before it becomes overloaded with too much activity, which will ultimately lead to more frustration and stress. You are often mentally fatigued without even realising it. And sitting for long periods of time can cause back pain, tension in your muscles and sore joints.
Taking regular, short breaks throughout the day helps you to concentrate, process and retain information. So, pause and take a breather. You think more clearly and make better decisions. You feel more energised and motivated to work when you get back. Taking breaks is good for your productivity.
If you are in a management role, you need to set a good example for your team members by taking regular breaks yourself. Show your staff that you look after yourself and take your wellbeing seriously.
So, do YOU take regular breaks and, where practical, step away from your workplace throughout the day? Or are you struggling to make the time to slow down? If you think you are far too busy to take regular breaks, think again.
You may be on the road to burnout!
Fortunately, it's never too late to break free from the “too busy” trap. It’s never too late to start incorporating regular breaks into your workday. And if you feel overwhelmed or not sure where to start – start simple. Make a small change and your wellbeing will improve. The most important thing is that you actually start.
Don’t underestimate the power of taking breaks at work. And don’t let the bad habits of your co-workers affect your own.
So take action and...
Have a break!!!
Eila Mikkonen
Counsellor, Coach & Mental Fitness Facilitator