Here's how you can maximize productivity and focus by taking regular breaks.

Research has found that taking a break can be very beneficial for you and your work. Micro-breaks, lunchtime breaks and longer breaks, have all been shown to have a positive relationship with wellbeing and productivity. By taking regular breaks you can boost your performance.

To maximize productivity and focus, take regular breaks using the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work, 5-minute breaks, and longer breaks after four cycles). Set alarms to remind you, to move around during breaks, stay hydrated, step away from screens, and practice mindfulness. These strategies will help enhance your productivity and maintain focus throughout the day.

The 4 cycles of 100 minutes is what I follow when I work on my consulting deliverables. It works! Keeps me focused, alert and at the same time - the anticipation of the 20 mins break makes it fun

Studies have found that breaks can reduce or prevent stress, help to maintain performance throughout the day and reduce the need for a long recovery at the end of the day.

Use your breaks to move around. A short walk or some stretching can increase blood flow and re-energize your mind. Getting the blood flowing again can have a tremendous outcome towards new and innovative product delivery.

Relaxing and social breaks have been found to be particularly beneficial. A relaxing break can help to facilitate recovery, by returning your mental and psychical functional systems to their baseline.

Social interactions allow you to share your experiences and feel part of a group. This feeling of relatedness, during a social break shows a positive association with feeling recovered after the break.

Natural settings can significantly enhance mental well-being and focus. A few minutes outside, fresh air, and natural light can lower stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive performance. Even nature pictures can help refresh the mind and tackle tasks with renewed vigour.

Taking mindful moments during breaks, such as deep breathing, meditation, or sitting quietly, can help reduce mental clutter and sharpen focus. This mental reset enables a calmer, more composed mindset, especially beneficial when feeling overwhelmed or stuck on a problem.

A mini-break is a few minutes away from your work; this may be chatting with someone who is in the room with you or getting a drink.

Socializing during breaks can help decompress and gain new perspectives. Brief chats with colleagues or quick catch-ups with friends can lift spirits, stimulate the mind, and lead to creative ideas. Keeping these interactions light and positive is crucial for maintaining the break's rejuvenating effect.

Flexibility is key in my opinion. A complex work needs that kind of focus and space to experiment and grow. Explain the team the priorities and criticality of the tasks they are assigned. Discuss and set time line and give them the space and freedom to shuffle and juggle between the high intensity, complex and simple work. This increases their performance.