Breaks and Productivity: A New Understanding in the Post-COVID World
The world of work, profoundly transformed by the Covid-19 pandemic, has seen remote working and video conferencing become new norms.
This shift raises a fundamental question: how can breaks contribute to greater productivity in this new professional environment? This change in working habits makes breaks not only desirable, but essential for maintaining both efficiency and well-being.
This article explores the strategic importance of breaks in our daily work routine, highlighting how they can be optimised to improve performance and job satisfaction.
The science behind breaks
The work of Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness on “active recovery” highlights the vital importance of breaks. According to them, these periods of rest are not a luxury, but a physiological and psychological necessity.
They describe ultradian rhythms, which suggest that our brains operate in cycles of around 90 to 120 minutes and require breaks to function optimally. This idea is further developed through the concept of the “human Operating System” (hOS), which compares our need for rest to a computer that requires regular reboots.
These recovery periods are not only beneficial for our mental health; they are also essential for maintaining high levels of productivity and creativity.
Breaks as part of deliberate practice
Many forward-thinking companies have adopted deliberate breaks as a key part of their workplace culture. Employees report that these structured and regular breaks are extremely beneficial, improving their productivity, motivation and job satisfaction.
Managers also observe improvements in collaboration and creativity within their teams. These experiences show that, far from being a waste of time, well-planned breaks are actually an investment in a company’s human capital, leading to better overall performance.
Strategies for effective breaks
A variety of strategies can be used to make breaks as effective as possible.
Activities such as meditation, light exercise or creative projects can help revitalise both body and mind while also encouraging innovation and problem-solving.
It is essential to create an environment that encourages relaxation and is free from work-related distractions. Employees should also be encouraged to personalise their breaks by choosing activities that are particularly beneficial to them.
These breaks should be viewed as periods of active recovery, helping to maintain a healthy balance between professional and personal life.
In conclusion, breaks are a powerful and often underestimated tool for improving productivity and well-being in today’s workplace.
In this post-Covid era, where remote working and virtual meetings have become commonplace, it is more important than ever to recognise and value breaks as essential moments for recovery and reflection.
By integrating them thoughtfully into our daily routines, we can not only improve our efficiency at work, but also enhance our overall quality of life.
This article encourages readers to view breaks not as interruptions, but as essential components of a sustainable and fulfilling way of working. Adopting well-planned and regular breaks can transform the way we approach work and pave the way for a new era of productivity and professional satisfaction.
Discover how the auum-S is revolutionising your break room!
