Embracing Breaks: The Unsung Heroes of Productivity

I've just completed on my first big deadline in this role.?It was exciting and challenging and made me realise it was the right move.? ?But throughout and now having completed, my line manager reminded me to take time "for me".? My team peers echoed this. Before it was easy to brush this off, my natural instinct and response being to say "later - I will - I'm ok", but this time I didn't.

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Throughout I made sure I had some level of "air time"; walk the dog, exercise, make that coffee I'm not supposed to really drink, but do so because making it takes me away from the desk.

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In the fast-paced world of work, the idea of taking breaks might seem counterintuitive - certainly has done for me in the past - especially during busy periods or after meeting crucial deadlines. However, contrary to my prior and common belief, incorporating breaks into your workflow can significantly enhance productivity and overall well-being.

Here's some points I've realised and hope will help others….

The benefits

??Recharge Your Mental Batteries:

In the midst of a demanding workload or tight deadlines, our minds can become fatigued. Just like a phone that needs recharging, our brains benefit from short breaks to rejuvenate and maintain optimal functioning. Stepping away allows your mind to reset, fostering creativity and enhancing problem-solving skills when you return.

In my particular situation, having returned from "air time", I could quickly reflect with a clear mind and check to see if im really focusing and doing the right things.

????♂?Boost Focus and Concentration:

Prolonged periods of continuous work can lead to diminishing returns in terms of focus. Taking breaks, even brief ones, helps to prevent burnout and allows you to return to your tasks with renewed concentration. This can was a game-changer for me, especially when dealing with complex or intricate aspects of the assignment.

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??Physical Well-being Matters:

Sitting for extended periods can negatively impact physical health. Breaks offer a chance to stretch, move, and alleviate any physical strain.? I built in time on the peloton, a run or a row as the breaks helped me to stay on track for a forthcoming event so contributes to a more confident and committed mindset.? When i failed to fit in during the day, even weekend I'd do the exercise at the end of the day, even 11pm one night - but did so knowing that it would help me the following day.

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????Enhance Creativity and Innovation:

Taking breaks provides an opportunity to step back and view challenges from a different perspective. A brief hiatus helped to spark new ideas for me that really had an positive effect. Without that moment of mental relaxation, the breakthroughs wouldn't have occurred.

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??Strengthen Team Dynamics:

My team mates all encouraged breaks which fostered a positive and collaborative atmosphere. Sharing these moments of downtime can build camaraderie, reduce stress, and contribute to a healthier work culture.?

Admittedly, it heavily depends on the behaviours and mindset of individuals within the team and the wider organisation - but here I was lucky.? I've worked in teams where this hasn’t been the case, and realise now the importance and difference it can make.

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??Improve Mental health

Continuous stress and pressure can have detrimental effects on mental health. Taking regular break?are a personal preventive measure, helping to manage stress levels.? I do find it hard, especially when I'm enjoying the challenge or there is time deadline, so have to remind myself that a healthy mind is a productive mind.

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????Post-Deadline Recovery:

After meeting this significant deadline, taking a well-deserved break becomes even more crucial.? I never used to.... I'd be motivated to keep going and see it through but have learnt over time there are other ways.

Decompressing and reflecting before the next push (hopefully going into delivery mode!!) is very important.? I've planned the time to do some personal admin, grab a coffee with friends and do some extended exercise.? It won't amount to more than a couple of hours, but it will prevents burnout and sets the stage for sustained success.

On the breaks

I'd normally listen to music whilst working so when away from the desk audibles or news updates on the radio served to break out of the mental mindset.

When exercising, setting a goal before meant I had something new to focus on and aim for. Sometimes easy, most of the time difficult - it was again a means of breaking away from the immediate work thought and towards something new and challenging.

If I found myself thinking of work, or something popped into my head, noting the thought down on my phone, or mostly into a small notepad was sufficient. I could then return to the break knowing the train of thought was recorded. Note: write down enough - a couple of times I didn't and only meant I was frustrated by not remembering!

Closing remarks

So, to summarise; breaks are not a luxury but a necessity in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.?

By prioritising breaks, you're not just taking time off; you're investing in your long-term productivity, creativity, and overall well-being.

I encourage everything to embrace them as an integral part of your routine, especially during busy work periods and after achieving key milestones.?

Big thanks to the Insight colleagues and partners in the last few weeks.? On to the next!