Did you know that 18% of Australians eat their lunch at their desk or workstation?

Despite research showing that employees are more productive at work when they take breaks, many people still feel like they need to work during break times.

The same report found that some people felt they had to work through lunch because they had too much work, whilst others felt peer pressure to work through lunch. So, how can you encourage your employees to take appropriate breaks?

What are the benefits of employee work breaks?

Taking regular breaks can help to reduce employee stress and fatigue. Your employees need to have some down time where they can think about other things and re-focus their energy. If your employees are calmer and more composed then their work will also be better.

Reducing your employees stress can also save your business money, because if they are satisfied at work then they are less likely to take sick days.

Another benefit of your employees taking breaks at work is that it can increase their productivity. If they sit and stare at their computer all day they will feel less inspired and less motivated to do work. Whereas, if your employees take a break their performance level greatly improves.

There are a number of contributing factors that go into the overall productivity of your employees, such as your office design, how motivated they are to work, and how often they take breaks.

4 breaks you need to encourage your employees to take

Of course not all breaks are as effective as each other, some can greatly improve your employees productivity, whilst others might make them feel even more tired and stressed.

The best way to encourage your employees to take effective breaks is by educating them on the benefits of different breaks and by offering things to help them take breaks.

1. Thinking breaks

One type of effective break is one where your employee is using a different part of their brain. You could encourage your employees to take thinking breaks by introducing puzzles and reading materials in your break area.

2. Relaxing breaks

Sometimes taking a relaxing break can be very beneficial for your employees. Why not place some comfortable chairs or bean bags in a quiet corner of your office? Your employees can enjoy some downtime and have a chill out.

3. Team building breaks

Team building breaks are great for your business and your employees, as it means that they can work together better. You could do this by having a selection of games in the break room. Encourage your employees to play strategy games such as Risk or Mastermind to really get their minds working.

4. Physical activity breaks

Exercise can be a great way for your employees to reduce their work-related stress and become more productive. Try holding competitions in your workplace for people who get the most steps, this will encourage your employees to go for a walk during their breaks.