There is so much you need to do and no way to solve one problem. You don’t deserve a break until the problem is solved. You won’t take a break unless you know how to solve the problem.
You might be surprised to learn that you can take a break right now. This could be the perfect time to take a break. Enjoy a few videos of cats and clips of dogs having fun. Research has shown that participants perform tasks better after looking at photos of baby animals.
A break can help you focus on the right priorities. You don’t need to take a break to get off track. It will help you stay on track.
Trust science but don’t trust me
Alejandro Lleras, University of Illinois psychology professor, explains:
“…Reactivating your goals helps you stay focused.” he said. “Practically, our research suggests that it is best to take short breaks when you are faced with long tasks, such as tax preparation or studying for the final exam. Taking short mental breaks can help you stay focused and on your task. (www.open.buffer.com/science-taking-breaks-at-work)
You might be concerned that taking a break will stop you from problem-solving. Your mind is not completely idle when you take a break. Your brain activity can increase when you daydream or allow your mind to wander. Barbara Oakley, an engineering professor, says that while we need to focus, we also need the diffuse mode. This mode is blocked by our focus. Relaxing is a way to enter this mode. It is during this time that your subconscious mind works away at the problem you are trying solve. (www.motherjones.com/environment/2014/08/inquiring-minds-barbara-oakley-learning-neuroscience)
If this is true for yourself, it will be true for your team. Encourage your team to take a break if they are struggling with a difficult issue. If you see a team member stressed out about a difficult problem, encourage him or her to walk around the building. You aren’t encouraging people to give up when things get tough. You are teaching them to dig in and find solutions. Your team should make taking breaks a part of their discipline. Your team members should be taught that a good way to increase productivity and sharpen your thinking is to give your brain some rest.
A high-performance engine would not be kept running at maximum speed for long periods of time. It would eventually stop working. It would become less efficient and slower as it ages. Your mind and those around it are high-performance engines. Don’t let them go.
Take a break.
