We all know that to achieve long-term success, we need to be able to fully apply ourselves, which often means we need to work harder than everybody else.  A strong work ethic is what the backbone of our economic system was founded on. However, in order to go above and beyond in your business, you also need to take breaks. Studies have shown that taking breaks throughout the day can greatly impact and improve your mental health and performance. As we move further into the summer months, where the workdays are longer and obligations seem endless, rest is even more necessary. Especially in America where work is the number one priority and busy-ness is seen as a status symbol. Too often we forget to take the necessary time out to rest and refuel to ensure we’re doing our very best work. So kick back, relax, and read the four benefits of taking consistent breaks according to forbes.com. 

1) Increased productivity

The irony! People’s obsession with productivity makes them work for hours on end, which makes them less productive. If you take a lunch break, your mind will be refreshed and reenergized, and you will have a more productive afternoon compared to a break-less day. This applies to breaks of all shapes and sizes. You can take a five-minute walk around the office every hour, a thirty-minute lunch break, or whatever works best for you and your schedule. The important thing is that you step away from your work and create space in your mind for relaxation and fun. Want to take your relaxation game to the next level? Value your weekends and days off. Similar to the lunch break, a fun-filled weekend allows you to reset your brain and get into the proper mindset to attack the week. 

2) Improved mental well-being 

Taking breaks teaches your mind to switch gears and let go of ongoing stress which allows your mental health to really flourish. A healthy mind is not only necessary to solve complex problems during the workweek, but it is also beneficial for your personal life too, which in turn allows you to feel supported at home and stay focused at work. Have you ever just been in ‘go’ mode for too long? Do you remember how your mental state was at that time? According to PRNewswire, 76% of employees in the U.S. are currently experiencing symptoms of burnout.  Working while in burnout mode can cause a host of work-related problems that take even more time to fix — poor decision-making, forgetfulness, and emotional volatility aimed at clients, coworkers, and employees. It’s not fun or productive to spend time untangling that mess. Avoid the hassle and just take a break.

3) Creativity boost 

This one is specifically beneficial for the branding world since creativity is such a big part of developing and designing a brand. But creativity isn’t just for artists, it is a huge benefit when it comes to problem-solving. The more you take a step back from what you are doing, the more time your mind has to explore new ideas, identify opportunities and imagine possibilities that aren’t visible when you’re engrossed in the day-to-day challenges of your business. Have you ever noticed that your most imaginative ideas or most innovative solutions to complex problems come to you in the shower? It’s because you finally gave your mind a minute to rest. 

4) More time for healthy habits

When you take breaks, you don’t have to just sit there and do nothing. Use the time to do things that help keep your body and mind healthy. Breaks can allow for more time to exercise, meal prep, listen to podcasts, and read your favorite books. When you are taking care of your mind and body, you will feel more inspired to take care of your work responsibilities as well. 

Long story short- take more breaks and time for yourself this summer! Your brain and your business will thank you.