How many times have we seen the “work hard play hard” caption under our friends’ Instagram pictures? This “work hard” habit, especially in the United States where people thrive in fast-paced environments, try to perform their best, rarely step away from their desks and usually forget the “play hard” part is proved to have negative impacts on people and businesses.
According to Tork, 20% of employees don’t take lunch breaks because they are scared their bosses won’t look up to them. It turns out their fear is valid as 22% of employers think employees who take regular lunch breaks are less hardworking than others. However, the study showed that 90% of employees feel stress-relieved and more productive after a proper lunch break. Additionally, 81% of employees who take regular lunches are willing to be an active member of their company.
Without taking adequate breaks from work, employee productivity, mental well-being and overall work performance begin to suffer. Here are the main reasons why lunch breaks are a key asset to employees’ well-being:
- Mental health. A lot of people might not be aware that skipping lunch is causing extra stress. Employees need time to recharge. Stress can be a motor but it can also have negative effects on people. Being away from the desk to go for a quick walk or enjoy a healthy lunch helps release some of this stress and improves mental well-being.
- Productivity boost. Employees gain focus and energy after stepping away from their desks. A lunch break can help prevent an unproductive, mid-afternoon slump.
- Creativity boost. Taking a break can give employees a fresh perspective on challenging projects. It’s hard for employees to develop new ideas or solutions when they’ve been looking at the same thing all day. A lunch break will most certainly help get those creative juices flowing.
- Helps for a better company’s culture. Always remember that employees who feel good and motivated will thrive in their environment and will feel the willingness to give back and be proactive.
Making sure employees take regular breaks throughout the day is necessary for employers to boost employee well-being as well as work performance. By allowing employees to take a step away from their desks throughout their workday, employers ensure that employees feel refreshed, stress-free, more productive and willing to give back. This is also one of the easiest ways to implement a great company culture attracting more and more talents to join your team.
