If you know me personally, you’ll know that I’m a big fan of holidays. I believe that they are essential to a person’s happiness AND effectiveness, and it has also been proven scientifically that taking a break is good for you (see this post on 5 science-backed ways a break boosts our productivity).
Taking some time out, however short or long, can help you be more focused on the task at hand. Some people find this really hard, but it’s all the more important for them to get into the habit of regularly taking time off.
Here are some examples of the different types of breaks you can take.
The short break
Take a short break in between long periods of concentrated work. Get up from your desk for 10 minutes, walk around, get some fresh air or get a cup of coffee. It will make the rest of the day go better. You can only work in concentration for about 30 minutes at a time.
A proper lunch
Have lunch al fresco, not al desko. Take a full hour (or 45 minutes if you really can’t spare any more) to have a nice lunch, and enjoy your food. Or meet up with someone and work on building your relationships at the same time.
The weekend
Take weekends off. The clue is in the word itself: weekend is the end of the working week. Use it to spend time with family, catch up with friends, do some exercise (fresh air is particularly good) or relaxation.
A holiday
Have regular holidays. Anything from a week to a month is good for you. Try to switch off completely, although a quick catch up every day might be just what you need to keep on top of things at work (especially when you are self-employed).
The sabbatical
Have a big break. This is also known as a Grown Up Gap Year or sabbatical. Take a year or so out to do something completely different. It may be hard to organise, but I promise you that it will be worth the effort.
So there you have it. Five different types of breaks that you can take to ensure you will be more productive, creative and above all happy!
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