In the “always-on” world, taking a break during the working day can feel wrong to Christian business owners. Even while enjoying lunch, we’re all guilty of checking emails or eating at our desks.
It’s even more difficult when working from home, which many of us have had to do this past year. Taking a break at home feels almost silly, or like you’re wasting time. It’s easy to feel like you have to prove your productivity more when you’re at home rather than in the office. But there are several benefits to taking regular breaks at work, and that’s what we’re going to discuss today.
How to Take a Break
To incorporate effective breaks into your working day, you should start by scheduling them, rather than taking breaks when you feel like it. The structure will keep you focused as the prize will be in sight.
The second tip is to make sure your break is relaxing rather than equally stressful. Working on housework will require just as much concentration as office work, meaning you’ll feel like you never had a break at all. Taking a moment to distract yourself and have a little fun is recommended. Compare casino sites UK to find an online game that can take your mind off your to-do list. You also could listen to a song or light a candle and meditate.
The benefits of taking breaks while working
Prevent burnout
Burnout – both mental or physical – can occur when you’ve pushed yourself beyond breaking point. But while it might seem that pushing through is the right thing to do to get your workload done as quickly as possible, long-term productivity is much better for everyone.
Burnout can lead to ailments and a low mood, making it much harder to focus on the task at hand. By taking regular breaks to reset, you’ll be able to feel refreshed and return to your to-do list with a clear mind. Your health is much more important than beating the clock; your to-do list will still be there after you’ve taken a moment for yourself.
Regain productivity
As well as preventing burnout, you’ll also be able to regain the productivity that you’ve lost. We often start the day fully fueled but find ourselves lagging in the afternoons. If this is the case, taking time to read that article that caught your eye, make a drink, or go for a walk gives your mind the chance to refuel and refocus.
Create healthier habits
Without structured breaks, you’ll find yourself grabbing yet another cup of coffee or heading out for the fifth cigarette of the day. By creating a routine around regular breaks, you can cut bad habits and incorporate healthier choices. Giving yourself time to have a full, healthy lunch will stop cravings and reduce stress, meaning you’ll likely need less of those caffeine and smoke alternatives.
Finally, if you’re a permanent Christian business remote worker, the days can become lonely. Use your breaks to reconnect with friends over the phone or Skype so that you can break the silence around you. That way, you’ll be able to boost your mood before getting back to work.