Does skipping your lunch break make you a better worker?
In today’s professional world, the pressure to be constantly available, perpetually productive and always on has become the norm. But the cost of this relentless rhythm is becoming increasingly clear: burnout, hallway and cloud of the boundaries between work and life.
Despite the growing dialogue on the balance between work and private life and mental health, many people still hesitate to take complete lunch breaks, to use paid leave or disconnect after hours.
For some, it’s fault. For others, it is fear. Fear of staying behind, being seen as less busy or losing career opportunities. But here’s the truth: rest is not a luxury, it is a necessity. And taking care of your well -being is one of the most intelligent long -term career moves you can do.
Have a sad desk salad? Instead, try taking a real break.Credit: action
The modern workplace often rewards the visible “frenzy”. The employee who remains late or responds to E -mail is immediately praised, while what is taken from or the watches in time could feel judged or worse, neglected.
This mentality, however, is obsolete and unsustainable. According to Gallup 2024 State of the global workplace Report, stress between employees is at most record. Almost 43 % of workers reported trying daily stress and Burnout continues to influence performance, commitment and health results.
While hard work is admirable, chronic overload leads to decrease returns. It reduces cognitive performance, hinders the decision -making process and increases the probability of errors. Mental and physical health also abbuits, leading to absenteeism, turnover and long -term unexpatcted.
The breaks allow the brain to process information, consolidate learning and generate new ideas
Contrary to the myth according to which leisure time reports a lack of ambition, research constantly shows that pauses actually improve productivity and performance.
A study published in Harvard Business Review Discovered that professionals who use their annual leave days are significantly more likely to receive increases or promotions than those who do not do it.
