Everyone needs a break now and then, and that goes for the working day, too. Common wisdom tells us of the importance of taking breaks, as do experts who argue that taking breaks is important both for our health and beneficial to productivity. Time reports that the most productive workers work hard for 52 minutes, and then go on break for 17. That’s a substantial amount of time devoted specifically to disconnecting from work – just shy a quarter of the total time involved.
Unlike their in-office counterparts, remote workers can use their break time for virtually anything. While this wealth of options is a positive development, it also means that remote workers need to be more deliberate in what they choose to do. Choice overload can cause trouble, so a modest menu of options curated by the worker themselves may be helpful. Are you a remote worker who could use a few suggestions to that end? Read on for 4 ways to get the most out of your breaks.
Sitting too much is unhealthy. Yale Medicine reports that research suggests prolonged sitting and inactivity could be linked to a variety of health problems, including a lowered life expectancy.
Thankfully, one doesn't need to train for a biathlon to at least make an improvement. CNN reports that one study indicated that even one minute of walking every hour can improve blood pressure.
The New York Times reported on similar studies that show that short bursts of short, intense exercise can lead to significant health improvements.
If you want to get moving and you’re able to do so (talk to your doctor to determine what kind of exercise your health permits), your break could be a great time to do it.
Timing your breaks around tasks that take time to complete in your absence is a good way to help maximize their usefulness.
For example, if you need a response to an email but know the answer will take some time, try sending your message before you go on your break. That way things can get done while you get a break at the same time. The kinds of tasks that can be done this way will differ depending on your job. Other possibilities include compiling code, rendering tasks, or computer software updates.
The same is true with the tasks you might perform on your break around the house. The end of your break might be a good time to start or change over a load of laundry, start an automatic vacuum, run the dishwasher, etc. This way things continue to get done while you switch back to work, and when your workday is over, you'll have more time to spend on other activities.
Sometimes the best break may be to simply rest. The New York Times reports that experts say naps are no substitute for a good night’s sleep, but they can help restore alertness. They suggest keeping naps under 30 minutes, and giving them a try in the afternoon, when many people already feel a little sleepy naturally.
The CDC tells us that socializing is beneficial to health and wellness. While working remotely is frequently recognized as a measure that improves the health and well-being of employees, socializing is one area that it may make more difficult. Without the natural occurrences of bumping into others at the watercooler or the elevator, remote workers may need to be a little more deliberate in cultivating healthy levels of social interaction.
Breaks are a good time to engage in that. On the digital side, it might be a good time to call a loved one or send a message to a friend or co-worker. If possible, making a point of interacting with others in person could be even better. Consider who may be nearby and available – a friend, family member, or neighbor perhaps – to say hello to.
There’s many more ways to spend your break time. Explore what works best for you and see about collecting your own list of favorites.
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