Hello!

After a four-month siesta, we’re back.

Suffice it to say that a break was needed.

What are your thoughts on taking breaks?

• Do you allow yourself rest when you need it or do you tend to “push through”?

• OR, do you ever feel guilty for taking a break, like you’re not following through on your commitments?

Even when we intuitively know that we could use a breather—be it five minutes or four months—it can be hard to allow ourselves to take one.

Obstacles like guilt, perceived social pressure and our own minds often get in the way.

Plus, in an age where maximizing productivity and output are often seen as keys to success, taking a break may sound like a luxury one cannot afford.

There are also plenty of opportunities to “check out” or mindlessly “escape” that seem to provide a break but typically end in feeling depleted or more exhausted.

But as most of us know, either through direct experience or because someone told us, taking breaks can actually increase wellbeing and productivity.

The key is to try and take productive breaks that facilitate genuine rest rather than “breaks” that perpetuate stress and overwhelm, like scrolling or checking email.

“Effective breaks help you distance yourself from work-related thoughts and facilitate an experience that will leave you feeling more refreshed,” according to the University of North Carolina’s Learning Center, which also provides a list of productive break ideas and suggests asking yourself what you want out of a break when you’re deciding among options.

On that note, what would you like to get out of your next break?

Additional Takes on Breaks

“How to Take Better Breaks at Work, According to Research” via the Harvard Business Review

“Study shows how taking short breaks may help our brains learn new skills” via the NIH

“Why Taking Breaks is Good for Your Brain” via Researcher.Life

Before you go …

I am now offering an eight-week coaching program to help stressed, overwhelmed professionals create more balance and fulfillment.

The 1:1, online program is open to anyone nationwide and offers a step-by-step process to help participants:

• uncover their unique values, strengths, and passions;

• clarify their goals;

• and take clear, actionable steps toward the life they want.