In the fast paced world of business, the mantra often seems to be “go, go, go.”
Whether it’s external pressures we feel, fear of competition, or just pressures we put on ourselves, we push ourselves to meet deadlines, chase targets, and seize opportunities, all apparently in the name of success.
But what if one of the most powerful tools for achieving business success isn’t about doing more, but rather, doing less?
Enter the power of the pause.
The science behind the pause
It turns out that our brains are not designed to work at full throttle all the time. Instead, they need moments of rest to process information, consolidate memories, and recharge.
While we may be hankering after that long summer holiday in the sun, research has shown that just taking regular breaks throughout a day can significantly boost productivity and creativity.
The benefits of micro-pauses
A break can just be a micro-pause, a brief moment when we stop for just 30 seconds to a minute, maybe just to look up from our work or take some deep breaths or stand up and stretch. This can be incredibly beneficial. Here’s why:
- A short break can help reset our focus, making us more alert and attentive when we return to our task.
- Pausing for a few deep breaths can lower our stress levels, reducing the risk of burnout.
- Taking a moment to pause can give us the clarity needed to come up with a new idea, or make better decisions, rather than rushing into something impulsively.
The power of longer breaks
While micro-pauses are essential, longer breaks are also important. Whether it’s taking a day off, a weekend getaway, or your full-blown summer holiday, longer pauses provide deeper benefits. Here’s why:
- Stepping away from work for a few days gives our brain the space to generate new ideas and solutions. (See if you can shut off from your devices too, for extra benefits!)
- Extended breaks can lead to better physical and mental health, reducing the risk of chronic stress-related issues that are on the rise. Mental Health UK’s Burnout report 2024 found that 91% of UK adults experienced high or extreme levels of pressure or stress in the past year, leading to one in five workers in the UK needing to take time off work in that period. Why not take a break before mental health problems force you to do so!
- Paradoxically, taking time off can make us more productive in the long run. It prevents burnout and keeps us energised for our work.
Pressing pause in our business routine
Incorporating pauses into our business routine doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here are some practical tips:
- Set a timer to remind yourself to take a short break every hour. Use this time to stretch, take a walk, or simply breathe deeply.
- Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises into your day. These can be done in just a few minutes and have been proven to have profound effects.
- Make it a priority to schedule longer breaks throughout the year. Plan these in advance to be sure you actually take them.
The ripple effect
The power of the pause isn’t just about individual benefits.
When business leaders acknowledge the importance of taking breaks, it sets a healthy precedent for the entire organisation.
Encouraging employees to take breaks will lead to a more engaged, creative, and productive workforce. It fosters a culture where well-being is valued, which can lead to higher employee satisfaction and retention.
Next time you find yourself caught up in the whirlwind of work, spending all your time reacting to others, remember that sometimes the best way to move forward is just to press pause.
