What are the best ways to take a break without losing focus or momentum?

One tactic I've found very effective is to leave a simple task incomplete (deliberately) before you start your break. This hack will greatly increase the chances that you get back into the flow of work since it's clear what you need to do.

Here is the very best tip I have learned about not losing your place or focus when you need to take a break: before you get up and walk away, grab a sticky note and write down a quick reminder note of the very next thing you need to do on whatever you are working on. Put that note right on top of your project folder or stick it on your computer screen, so when you come back to your desk, you will know it right where you left off — just like a bookmark! That will help keep away unnecessary backtracking. And, that will also let you take your break with a clear mind and no worries.

Some may find taking a break only once you feel a dip in your level of concentration that it's later than it should have been. You may find yourself needing to 're-group' longer than the typical 15-minute (or so) break. Giving yourself an alarm or reminder of some kind at regular intervals may seem annoying at first, but it does help you get into a rhythm of taking breaks that you'll be forever grateful for.

Get in the habit of scheduling breaks for yourself after meetings or long work sessions...as soon as you schedule these items. This way, your breaks are already "baked" into your workday.

For me a break means using my brain and body differently than when working - so movement, away from the screen, are ways that help the break truly feel like one. Timing a break also helps.

Yes, this is true! I worry when all I see during anyone else's break time is their nose in their phone, checking their social posts or playing a game. However, some individuals I know are actually reading the news or checking into an interesting news article during their break, which is a great way for your mind to dwell on something totally different.

If your teammates rely on a calendar for scheduling, you can block time on a recurring basis to protect your focus/break periods. If you work in an office, put on headphones to communicate that you don't want to be bothered.

I like doing this in combination with movement/doing something completely different. I'll put on some video game music (anything instrumental will do--words are distracting), take a walk and let myself ponder what made me frustrated or what's going well.

Gamification can work wonders here. If you have a physical calendar, draw an X every time you've completed a day of deep work. After a few days, you won't want to break the chain! The reward will be to add another X to the chain.

I constantly will notate anything that I'm working on. It helps me retain more and perfectly reserves my right to be able to take a break whenever is most appropriate. This leaves behind a better trail than a single sticky but this habit originated as such. Always seek out a gray area and perhaps do both. Combining wonderful pieces of advice to be tailored to what you need is a great approach to many things. This will assist you in helping others be empowered similar to yourself. Great time to team up and gain alternate perspective on topic/project with coworker or boss. Teamwork Dreamwork!