There’s a big difference between taking a break and taking a productive break. When you’re working overtime or on a deadline, the hours can seem to drag by and sometimes you think that if you take a break, you’ll never get back on that proverbial horse to finish the job. Not true! Everyone needs to recharge their batteries during marathon work sessions it simply takes some planning and a little trial and error to see what works for you. You want to come back from the break feeling inspired and full ideas, not lethargic, and unmotivated.
Here are my Do’s and Don’ts for taking a productive work break:
DO
1. A change of scenery can work wonders; being too comfortable in your surroundings can affect your motivation. Change it up and head over to the local library, a coffee shop or even a different room at the office. It can make all the difference.
2. Be selective about how you fuel yourself during the work day (or night). A balance of protein, carbs and healthy fats will keep you alert and functioning at your best. Don’t forget water, too.
3. I personally like to read a magazine during my break. Reading keeps my brain engaged but I know that when I finish, it’s back to work.
DON’T
1. Think twice before meeting up with friends during your productivity break. A too long lunch or that quick trip to the mall could distract you from completing the task at hand. If you want to talk with someone to break the silence, go to a coworker instead it’s better since you both have a similar schedule.
2. Don’t reach for the sweets! Chocolate might seem like a good idea for a quick boost of energy but you want to avoid a sugar coma crashing in the middle of finishing up a project will lead to mistakes you can’t afford to make. Dessert afterwards seems like a better reward, no?
I also reached out to my fans on Facebook and Twitter for their ideas… check ’em out below!
– RozzieNecole @lorenridinger DO-eat a healthy snack (apples, almonds, raisins, water), DON’T-eat a heavy sugary snack (candy bar, soda, cookies).
– eliseo7s @lorenridinger Do: look in the mirror; Don’t: stay on twitter longer than 5mins.
– AshleyBizzarri @lorenridinger DO take a 10 min walk. DON’T sit and stare at facebook for an hour!
– StarServices @lorenridinger If there is a TV nearby DON’T turn it on!
– Richelle Richie DO eat a healthy snack; Don’t eat junk food from the near by vending machine. Also DO wear a watch OR have your cell nearby to make sure that your not late returning from your break. Last but not least, DO be a few minutes early. 🙂
– Brenda JM Sabin DO get up from your workspace and MOVE – DO take some deep breaths and stretch. DON’T eat JUNK food – sugar crash will kill your productivity later!
