Time is a very precious resource we all want to use wisely. Knowing how to make the most of it is one of the best ways to feel productive. Even the breaks you take can become productive. This doesn’t mean you have to push yourself to work every waking moment, it is about giving yourself what you need to be a healthy and happy person who gives their best in everything they do.
It is all about attending to your needs in order to make your work life sustainable, so if you are a busy person with a tight schedule here we have some ideas to make your breaks a space to cool down and get yourself energized and motivated to take on the world.
1. Clean your desk
Don’t underestimate the improvement in your mood and well-being that a clean space can provide. If you are anything like me, it is likely that your desk suddenly appears to be full of papers that you had to check, post-its that were meant to remind you of something, or things that just ended up there at some moment.
Taking a couple of minutes to declutter your working space can be very helpful. The act of cleaning can be soothing at times, and the result of doing it will dramatically change the atmosphere of your working environment.
2. Socialize
We spend a big amount of time alone in front of a screen. And, let’s not forget it, we are social beings. Sharing your break with a coworker, talking a little about a TV show or something other than work can help you get out of the fuzzy to-do list cloud, so you can approach it with a clear mind after your break.
This is also a great way to bond with your teammates, not only providing you with a good time on the coffee break but also bringing you closer so you understand each other better and working together becomes easier.
3. Take some fresh air
Step out of the office, go outside, breathe. Changing the scene can help you disconnect from work for a moment. Nature is the best scene you could go to, so if you have a park near the office, go and take a short walk, it’s not only a good way to relieve stress but to keep you healthy.
Something as simple as going out and taking some air can do miracles for your mind and body. The outside world can sometimes help you shift your perspective. By doing so, you will come back renewed and recharged, ready to give your best and to be your best.
4. Enjoy some good Music
Music makes me smile. As simple as it may sound, it is a great and quick mood changer. Think about the day that lies ahead and what you need to complete it successfully. Then, find the soundtrack to achieve it. Using your break to listen and to rock empowering songs is not only fun but a huge help for your mood. It will definitely help you get into the winning mindset you need to be in.
For those who prefer calmer music, this is a great tip too. Since music can help you relax faster. So pick a song, close your eyes, and let the energy flow… Always remember the do’s and don’ts of listening to music at work to make this functional for everyone.
5. Try People-Gazing
Watching people passing by, looking out the window, and staring at the city is one of my favorite ways to spend my breaks… There is something very soothing in just witnessing the world and people around it, some even say that it could be a form of meditation itself.
Being observant is a good quality to develop, so taking a few minutes to get out of the working mindset and clear your head by looking around and actually seeing the people around you, being detailed on your observations, and witnessing what is going on is an amazing way to develop it. It is about getting out of your head to pay attention to what is out there.
6. Stay hydrated
I have a couple of friends who message me randomly to see if I’m keeping myself hydrated, and most times I haven’t. It is vital to remember that to prevent headaches to even worse health issues. So what better way to start your break than going for a glass of water… Don’t forget it. Your body is the one that will carry you all your life, so you have to take care of it.
7. Stretch the stress away
Stress can lead to muscular tension, and spending the day sitting at a desk is not doing any good to that. Spending a moment to stretch could significantly help you reduce sore muscles.
You can even have a little stretching routine in your chair. Incorporating exercise into your work schedule could improve your mental health, reduce aging, and even reduce the risk of heart disease. We have a full article about how to include this in your schedule and its benefits. Click here to check it out.
8. Be grateful
One of the best techniques I learned to keep myself grounded and actually be happier is to write down three things you are grateful for… I think that using your break to take a piece of paper and reflect on the good things in your life is an incredibly productive and wise way to use your time.
It doesn’t have to be a huge list, just grab a post-it and write the first things you are grateful for that day that come to mind. Learning to appreciate the beauty and magic in everyday life will put things in perspective. No last-minute call, rude customer, or hard task could take that peace of having something to thank for.
Breaks are supposed to break the routine and get yourself out of the work picture so you can breathe, be, and come back stronger. Whatever works best for you will suffice, but we highly recommend the ideas listed above, so why not give them a try?
