Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
Your schedule is packed. There never seems to be enough time. You have more to do than will fit into 24 hours. You are physically tired and mentally stressed. These are some of the symptoms of today's hectic lifestyle.
What can you do to recharge and make life more manageable? One of the best ways of coping is to take a break. This provides you with an opportunity to recharge mentally and physically. Taking breaks is more than just a good idea, it's essential.
The need for sleep demonstrates how important breaks are. Sleep is a biologically required break. Without enough sleep, you are incapable of functioning. In addition to adequate sleep, regular breaks enable you to reduce stress and fatigue while enhancing your overall ability to deal with everything on your plate.
Without breaks, you are operating at full throttle. What would happen if you constantly drove your car with the gas pedal against the floor? The engine would break down in short order. If you treat yourself the same way, you will also burn out.
You need regular, short breaks as well as periodic longer ones. A common misconception is that taking a break reduces productivity. Just the opposite is true. People who incorporate breaks into their lifestyle substantially outperform those who don't. They get more done in a shorter period of time.
In addition to stress and fatigue, there are a number of other recognizable signs indicating you need a break. Lack of focus, boredom, anxiety, a short temper, distraction, and reduced precision are some of the symptoms.
There are a variety of strategies available to you. Mealtimes are a perfect opportunity to take a number of daily breaks. While eating, don't work, discuss work, or drive. Your body can not properly digest food when you are stressed. Regardless of how little time you have, sit down and relax. Listening to music, conversing with friends, reading from a book, or sitting quietly are a few suggestions.
Don't overlook the importance of a proper diet. Food is your fuel. You won't function properly if it's defective. Junk food may be enjoyable but it is not a meal replacement. Use common sense. Candy, donuts, and cakes don't qualify as a meal.
There are others strategies you can use to break up your day. Changing or varying tasks is a good way to reduce boredom. Doing so can also get you out of a mental block. If you spend a lot of time sitting, get up and walk around. Even if you can only stand up and stretch you will feel better.
Some people find a quick five or ten minute nap to be very refreshing. You do this right at your desk or in a parked car. Some employers even encourage napping by providing quiet lounges. It may take some creativity but the benefits of a nap are worth it.
Outside of work, recreational activities provide an enjoyable break. You can find a hobby, read, volunteer, engage in a sport, or take a class. Something that requires your participation is preferable to passive pursuits. Being a constant couch potato doesn't provide long term benefits.
Taking vacations are a great way to unwind. However, if you take work with you, it's not a true vacation. Vacations don't have to be long or expensive. A day trip or a weekend away will give you with an opportunity to recharge.
Regardless of what strategy works best for you, taking frequent breaks provides numerous benefits. Don't feel guilty about taking time for yourself. You will be happier and healthier as a result.
