Lunch hours are the perfect opportunity for working adults to unwind and recalibrate for the rest of the day over a meal.
However, there are times when it’s necessary to be productive during that midday hour away from the desk. Taking a cue from those working mothers who dedicate lunch breaks for family time, here are four ways your lunch hour can help you stay productive:
Tune outDespite the fact that they can help you reset and focus on the job at hand, the act of tuning out from work during lunch breaks are often much easier said than done when you have mobile devices with you. Working for long hours on the same task has proven to be counterproductive, and though it can sometimes be challenging to walk away in the middle of a task, take your lunch break instead of powering through. Better yet, leave your phone behind when you head out so that you resist the urge from responding to emails and phone calls. This will give our brain a rest so that you’re well-rested to take on the second half of your day.
Interact with peersIt’s nearly impossible to interact with your co-workers when everyone’s consumed with their work during office hours, which is why lunch breaks are the best time to socialise. Instead of rushing out for lunch, see if anyone is available to go out with you or get a group together – this way you can get to know each other better on a personal level, which can help to improve collaboration with each other on the job. Who knows, you may even need a work favour or two in the future, with these personal relationships being the key to helping you get the job done.
Break a sweatIf you constantly find yourself feeling lethargic at work, but still experience difficulties falling asleep at night, consider utilising a part of your lunch hour for brisk exercise. Getting your heart pumping could be the extra boost you need to power you through your post-lunch blues. In fact, people who exercise regularly through the day are more confident and efficient, improving their performance at the workplace.
Eat rightNo lunch is complete without a hearty meal, and that means regularly keeping up with a healthy diet compromising of a good mix of fruits and vegetables along with the occasional indulgence. However, eating right isn’t always about what you put in your mouth but also how you consume your food. Rushing over a meal or regularly eating at your desk to attend to work matters are also examples of unhealthy eating habits that hinder your productivity in the long run. Get out of the office and get some fresh air – you’re going to need it!