Do You Need A Break?
Vine Resources
Specialist technology talent solutions for start-ups, fast-growing companies & leading brands
I recently spoke to a hiring manager who decided they were taking a week off. I asked them if they were going away somewhere and they shared they just wanted time at home to recharge, turn their work phone off, get away from emails and enjoy meeting family and friends without the need for actually getting on a plane.
What a great idea I thought!
Listen to our Podcast to spot 5 simple signs that you might need that break.
Or if you prefer to read, carry on:
1. Always on edge
Are you more intolerant of people than usual even when they have done nothing wrong? This often can stem from feelings of stress and anxiety from overwork.
When you’re wound up, flight or fight can kick in more quickly than normal and the brain can alter your usual response to stress.
You might feel agitated, which makes you irritable and moody with the people around you and not think as clearly or make the sound judgments that you normally do.
2. Reduced focus and poorer decision-making
Procrastination often increases which delays decisions and further increases stress. Your productivity and effectiveness may well reduce.
You may also become more forgetful than usual, be unable to focus, and your problem-solving and decision-making skills decrease.
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3. Lower levels of energy
When your ‘mojo’ is down, you might find yourself unable to maintain your usual energy and enthusiasm for your role. Missed deadlines, small mistakes, and overlooked details are all to be expected if your heart just isn’t in it.
It’s better to take a break from the responsibilities than to deliver at less than your normal standards.
4. Feeling under the weather
Your need for a break can often manifest itself as physical symptoms. Your pulse may quicken, your neck and shoulders stiffen and your stomach may feel it is frequently in a constant knot.
Not to forget, the headaches, muscle pains and feelings of nausea that you might experience. Your body will always tell you what your stubborn mind may resist, yes, it needs to rest.
5. Having trouble sleeping
Insomnia is a sure sign of overwork. Many studies among senior-level executives have found that the group with burnout reported experiencing higher issues with insomnia, sleep fragmentation, and non-restorative sleep.
It also found that burnout subjects had higher levels of anxiety and depression scores. So if the anxiety of work is keeping you up all night, take note. It might be time to take some time away from it.
So, take a minute, if you recognise any of these signs, is it time you took a well-deserved break?
Best regards,
David Lawrence
Founder
Vine Resources