When you’re working alone, you might find it difficult to keep up your focus. You might get easily distracted by your phone or social media, and you might feel frustrated by your inability to stick to the task at hand.
The truth is, humans aren’t computers. We are not built to focus out all on a single task for several hours at a time. Humans need breaks, mental stimulation, and physical activity. In order to perform our best at work, we need to take breaks.
There are breaks, and then there are effective breaks.
And not all breaks are created equal. Having your phone around you, for example, has been shown to increase anxiety and lower cognitive performance. Here are three tips on making the most of your breaks.
1. Time Your Breaks Right
Professional athletes don’t just train all day long. They make sure to take plenty of rest; in fact, most athletes focus as much on recovery as they focus on their actual performances.
Research has shown that the top 10% of productive workers worked an average of around 52 minutes at a time and took 17-minute breaks in between work sessions. These breaks allow them to stay focused on their work, as by knowing you have a break coming up, you are more likely to work with purpose.
2. Let Your Mind Drift
You might be tempted to check up on your social media, catch up with the latest news, or browse shopping sites during your break. Don’t!
A work break isn’t just a physical recharge. It is a mental break as well. This means that you need to avoid highly stimulating, addictive activities such as scrolling through social media or playing mobile games. Instead, choose activities that will allow your mind to relax.
Here are some break activities that will allow your mind to recuperate.
Brewing a cup of joe in Titan Business Suite’s break room is a great way to refresh your mind.
- Do breathing exercises or meditate.
- Tidy up your room.
- Stand up and stretch.
- Call a friend or family member.
- Chat with your colleagues or coworkers.
- Take a shower.
- Doodle.
- Take a quick nap.
3. Take a Walk
Humans weren’t built to sit for eight hours a day. Taking breaks at regular intervals and fitting in some physical activity into your day will also get improve your health as it gets the blood flowing. Leave your phone and any distractions behind, too, so you can focus on mentally refreshing yourself.
Try to take a walk outside if you can. Spending time in nature can lead to a decrease in mental fatigue. However, even a stroll around the office hallways or around the meeting room can refresh your memory and boost your creativity.
Titan Business Suites provides virtual offices to give you peace of mind. Our mission is to provide business owners with the private offices and virtual services they need to work without distractions. Separating your work and personal life is another strategy for boosting your focus, so be sure to call us today to learn more about our services.