Breaks at work are essential. No matter what you do, you need a little time to step away from responsibility. There are a few ways you can make better use of the time for a better coffee break. From planning scheduled breaks to taking a little longer, here are some ideas.
Avoid Work-Related Activities
Above all, try to avoid anything work-related when on your breaks. Breaks are supposed to take you away from your responsibilities for a while. This will help you rest and reset, especially when things are hectic. Break time is your time and not the company’s or the client’s. So settle down with a snack and pass the time with a quick game of mahjong or Candy Crush, or see if you can get those birds in a better mood! Unless it’s an emergency, enjoy your break.
A Better Coffee Break with Planning
Like anything, coffee breaks can be planned. This gives you a clear line of sight for when you are available and when you are not, helping to form a more precise work schedule. It also gives you something to look forward to at a regular interval throughout your day. This will help refresh your mind and motivate you to get back to work. This is made all the more critical when you consider that 56% of office workers claim they can’t relax when they take a break at work.
Sit Down and Relax for a Bit
A coffee break means different things to various people. Some try to get as much caffeine as possible, while others can’t wait to vent their frustration to you. But a break is there for you to take a step back from duties and rest. So why not do just that? Find a quiet spot and take a load off. You don’t even need to drink coffee! Perhaps a soothing tea of your choice or a favourite cold soda is what you need. Either way, just chill! Your work will still be there when you get back.
A Better Coffee Break with Others
Maybe you’re the kind of person who loves to be left alone while taking a deserved break. Then again, you might enjoy being in the company of others. Here’s how you can capitalise on that:
- Use the time to network with colleagues in other departments.
- Catch up on shared interests, such as the latest streaming shows or movies.
- Engage in idle chit-chat by asking about weekends or plans.
- Make someone’s day by asking how they are and if there’s anything they need.
- Try not to gossip, as this contributes to a toxic workplace that nobody wants.
Social interaction at work isn’t mandated, but it can be a massive help. Even if it’s only for 10 minutes per day, just getting along with others provides a sense of acceptance in the workplace.
Be Kinder to Yourself
Sitting around and taking a load off has many benefits. You can refresh your body and mind, and get back to work calmer. But there are also other things you can do to help yourself relax. Why not take the time for some wellness practices? If you have the time, consider meditation or conscious self awareness. If there is a park or greenspace nearby, that’s perfect for both of these, or just taking a walk in nature is enough to provide a better sense of well-being.
Take a Bit Longer for a Better Coffee Break!
Most people are very limited when it comes to breaks, so it makes sense to make the most of them. The average lunch break is around 33 minutes in most workplaces. However, some workplaces are pretty generous with breaks, and some even encourage it. If possible, take as long as you need without taking advantage of the rules. Some days, you might only need 5 minutes, and you might need 20 minutes when you’re having one of those dreaded days!
How About Sampling More Coffee?
It isn’t called a coffee break for no reason! Okay, so maybe it’s just a break, but you can make it an actual coffee break by including coffee. If coffee is your thing and you really enjoy a cup of coffee when you take a break, why not make it something special? Take the time to try various different types of coffee to find the ones you love. Coffee is as complex as wine when it comes to strength and aroma. Doing this with others gives more meaning to your usual coffee break.
Try to stay away from doing anything related to work so you can have a better coffee break. You can include others in your break with idle chatter as you socialise. Or you can even use your coffee break time to actually drink and discuss coffee, which can become a little side hobby!
