5 Actions for Challenging Tasks : Part V

Action 5 : Take that Break

At the start of my career, I thought I had to work long hours in order to prove myself.
I’d feel so guilty if I took a break.

I drank copious amounts of coffee and smoothies while working, lost track of time, forgot to eat only to devour anything edible in my path regardless of the nutritional content.
I’d complain of stiff legs and then realise I’d been sitting in the same position for hours.
Only when thirst would overtake me would I realise I hadn’t drank a glass of water in ages.
Those are not healthy habits.

It is important to look after your physical self. You only have one body, treat it well.

Take care of you, so that you can have a long and fulfilling career.

Here are some pointers to help you

1. Take little breaks

  • Working hard is hard work!
  • When you are super busy, the temptation is high to work for hours on end
  • Which is why the next point is super important:
  • Don’t underestimate the power of taking small breaks
  • Your body and mind will thank you

2. The reverse timer technique

  • Using a timer, countdown or alarm is a great way to remind you to take a break
  • But have a goal in mind with your timer or countdown, not just an auditory prompt
  • Count backwards from your next snack break / stretch break / gym session
  • And set the timer for then
  • Use a special audio tune that you use exclusively for these break prompters
  • When the timer goes off and you hear that tune, you’ll know you have something to look forward to

3. Hydration matters

  • Copious cups of coffee may help with staying awake, but water is super important for hydration
  • Just ask any health professional about the benefits of staying hydrated
  • Drink enough clean, filtered water, it has so many health benefits
  • Fill a large water bottle and aim to finish it by the end of the day

4. Lunch breaks

  • You’ve heard it before, but I’ll say it again: try to eat away from your desk
  • If you are in an office and have a canteen or pause area, then eat there
  • If you are working from home, then choose a spot other than your work space to eat at
  • And if you have no other choice but to eat at your desk, then:
  • Close your laptop and put your phone away while you are eating
  • So that you can concentrate on enjoying your food

5. Get moving

  • Get up from your desk and get some movement in during your busy day
  • Take a short walk, or do some stretches
  • Movement is important
  • It gets the blood flowing, gives us an opportunity to mentally ‘recalibrate’
  • And makes us feel better overall!

And just like that, we’ve come to the final part of the SOCKS Series
“5 Personal Actions that helped me to deal with Challenging Tasks in my Career”

Look out for the conclusion snippet, which will help you to put it all together.

Have an Admintastic day,

Shana

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