Take a break – take a KitKat, or take time for yourself

How does our brain power change over the time? Breaks are really freaking important. They matter a lot. We have this idea that the best way to get things done is to power through without a stop and that is empirically wrong. High performers are very good at taking breaks. This is not a spiritual message this is very hard research this is not a deviation of our performance it is part of our performance. We should be much more intentional about breaks. But what is the right kinds of breaks to take? There are some principles on how to have breaks by Daniel Pink, author of A Whole New Mind:

1. Something is better than nothing.

2. Social is better than solo

3. Moving is better than stationary

4. Fully detached is better than semi detached

5. Importance of being in nature, being outside

This is the set of ingredients for taking breaks. We need breaks not only to recover and recharge but also to get new inspirations, thoughts and insights. To stay curious and open-minded about what else is happening at the same time. You can even take breaks in order to be more efficient. Take a break from your phone. You will be much more focused, much more effective and way more relaxed. There is scientifically proof that with each distraction our brain needs up to 3 minutes to get back to focus. Each signal from our phone is one distraction. Now imagine how much time at a day you need to get back to focus? Unbelievable how much time we waste just for knowing you uploads a new selfie on instagram! Try it out. Give yourself a few hours phone-free time each day and take the spare time you’ll get to have a KitKat instead.