Never think you’re too busy to take a break

Regular breaks during the day has been scientifically proven to make people happier, more focused and more productive.

Therefore, no matter how busy you are, or how packed your to-do list is, you need to learn how to prioritise taking a few minutes every day to escape your work load and relax your mind.

Below we have a few quick tips to help you get into the habit of taking breaks, and some insight into why this can help to improve your health, well-being and productivity.

Take a walk

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, go outside and have a quick stroll. Just 20 minutes of walking can have numerous benefits, not to mention improved creativity and cognitive performance. Walking also helps to enhance the connectivity of important brain circuits which can combat age-related declines.  

Doodle

Take a few minutes to grab a pen and paper and let your mind wander. Research shows doodling can stimulate new ideas and improve concentration, and the daydreaming element can help relax your mind.

Listen to music 

Make an effort at least once a day to pop in your headphones and listen to some music. This simple activity has been shown to significantly improve motor and reasoning skills and is also linked to happier mood. 

Google cute animals

One particular study explored the impact of cute baby animal photos on productivity. Interestingly participants performed a lot better on a variety of tasks after spending a few minutes looking through photos, so treat yourself to a search on Google every so often to lift your spirits and recharge your mind.

Exercise your eyes

If you spend your day looking at a computer screen, aim to stick to the 20-20-20 rule to give your eyes a break every so often. Every 20 minutes, take a break for at least 20 seconds and look at objects that are at least 20 feet away from you. This will give your eye muscles a much-needed stretch.

Life coaching can develop and promote changes in all areas of your life, and is particularly beneficial for helping you to strike a balance between life and work. To find out more, please see our work/life balance page.

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