How can taking breaks actually increase productivity?

Studies show that after a long time, air traffic controllers lose the ability to stay alert for important signals. It has also been shown that taking a break or switching tasks can give you more energy, keep you focused, and help you come up with new ideas.

We will have to face the consequences of always being on high alert and taking care of everyone else’s emergencies. Remember that it’s okay to take care of your mental health. If you want to improve your overall health, switch gears and take short breaks at work. 

How can I include breaks in my workday?

The Pomodoro method is ideal for setting aside time for focused work intervals as well as rest breaks. Before you even start the Pomodoro method, you need… Figure out how to divide up your work into steps that are more manageable and then tackle them one by one. Then, classify the jobs according to their similarities, and give the following a shot:

1. Determine the activity that has to be carried out.
2. Put 25 minutes on the Pomodoro timer (typically for 25 minutes).
3. Put some effort into the work.
4. When the bell rings, work should be stopped, and a brief break should be taken (typically 5–10 minutes).
5. Proceed to Step 2 and continue on doing so until you have used up all three Pomodoros.
6. After the fourth Pomodoro, you should stop working and take a rest (traditionally 20 to 30 minutes). After the lengthy pause, go on to step 2 and complete the process.

What can I do for my break?

Mini Breaks

Our capacity to concentrate may be improved and the mental energy required for in-depth thought can be replenished by switching activities temporarily or taking brief breaks in between jobs. Here are some suggestions for quick breaks, both at your desk and elsewhere in the office.

• You may get your body moving by doing some fast desk exercises or stretches.
• Listen to an uplifting lecture given at TED to take your mind off of your responsibilities.
• Take a stroll around the neighborhood and participate in a little picture competition.
• Can’t leave your desk? No issue, try doodling.

Community/Social

Different people have different levels of social contact demands, but it is detrimental to our mental health to have no social support. Join us at VA FLIX to become a member of our virtual assistant community if that is what you are searching for. Here, you will have access to more than 300 other VAs working in a variety of fields and backgrounds. 

De-Stress

Our area of work inevitably exposes us to a certain amount of stress. We have to cope with conflicting goals, an ever-changing corporate environment filled with new technology to master, and the satisfaction of our customers is on the line. Taking some time off to relax and unwind is necessary, and if it also helps us stay productive, that’s a benefit. Try out some of these suggestions:

In light of this, it may seem as if there is no time for relaxation; but, in order for us to work to the best of our abilities, it is very necessary that we take rests at regular intervals.