Do You Need to Take a Lunch Break?

Here’s why you need to incorporate a lunch break into your work day

Do you feel the urge to work through your lunch break? You’re not alone ⁠— but all work and no breaks can actually do more harm than good.

A recent survey of North American workers revealed those who value their lunch breaks feel more engaged and productive than their counterparts. It also showed workers who take lunch breaks are more likely than others to feel excited about going to work every day.

Personally, my workload gets crazy at times. I feel like work adds up quickly, but there is only so much time to complete it. As a result, I sometimes skip lunch or eat lunch and work at the same time.

So, here’s my pledge to you: I will try to make time for lunch every day, regardless of workload. I encourage you to do the same — because if you enjoy your break for lunch, you can:

• Increase your productivity: A break helps you refuel and return to work feeling energized.
• Improve your mental health: Thanks to a break, you can take time away from your work to take care of yourself.
• Boost your creativity: With a break, you can step away from the task at hand, eat a healthy, delicious meal and get your creative juices flowing once again.

Finally, here’s my suggestion: make lunch a time to reward yourself. Also, enjoy your lunch at a cafeteria, break room or anywhere else outside your traditional workspace. That way, your break for lunch can help you perform your best.