Why Non-Work Activities Are Important for Productivity at Work

When it comes to working, sometimes it feels like all time we do is work, and the rest of our time is spent exhausted. But what if we told you that taking some time for yourself is good for your productivity? Believe it or not, engaging in non-work activities can help you focus and be more productive when you are at work. Check out some of the different things you can do to help improve your productivity below.
Take a Vacation
If you’re frustrated, tired, or can’t seem to get yourself into a working mindset, it’s time for a break. Gallup found that two-thirds of American employees are exhausted at work, which leads to decreased employee engagement and increased turnover. Take a vacation and return refreshed and ready to go later.
Walk Around the Office
Are you exhausted with yourself because you can’t seem to focus today? Get up and walk around the office; it’ll help you relax. If it’s only pushing your chair back from your desk and stretching out your arms and legs, take a break to get your blood flowing.
Stop Multitasking
You’re probably getting in the way while on the phone, chatting with a buddy online, and working on a spreadsheet. Multitasking has been linked to decreased productivity for years. Give yourself a much-needed break by closing all of your browser tabs. Then shift your full attention to what you were meant to be doing.
Take a Lunch Break
Tork conducted a poll that revealed that of those who take a lunch break every day, 78 percent feel they are “as effective and efficient” as they would want to be. That compares to 71 percent of people who don’t take a lunch break each day. Take a short break from work and eat lunch without checking your email.
Get Out of the Office
A change of scenery may be just what you need to increase your productivity at work. Get out of the office, whether for a few minutes or during your lunch break, to clear your thoughts away from your computer. Recharged and ready to go, you return refreshed.
Feed Your Mind
Taking time to read, listen to podcasts, and watch movies with my family is extremely beneficial – in unexpected ways. I’m not talking about business or technology books here; I’m speaking about anything. We have a custom on Saturday nights and frequently watch a film at home.
Discover New Ways
When I travel, I see that there is always another option even though we may do things a certain way at home. In other words, it encourages me to question preconceptions and discover new methods of accomplishing tasks.
ConclusionÂ
Taking a break from work is important for productivity. We’ve looked at why non-work activities are beneficial, and we’ve also shared some ideas on how you can make the most of your breaks. What will you do during your next break? Will you read a book, walk, or watch a movie? Whatever you choose to do, make sure it’s something that relaxes and rejuvenates you so that you can come back to work feeling refreshed and motivated.
Sometimes, the right workspace can do wonders for your productivity. Check out the different workspaces we have to offer at La Collective Cowork here.