The working lunch

When were under pressure to get the job done we’ve all worked through our lunch breaks or on occasion cut lunch out altogether. But when it becomes the norm you have to ask yourself, is it really worth it?

A recent BBC poll found that 54% of workers are now dining ‘al-desco’ continuing to work through their lunch breaks without being paid for their efforts.

Whilst it may seem that were getting more work done, it is worth realising that failing to eat lunch regularly or at the very least taking a break from the glare of a computer screen can have a severely detrimental effect.

The majority (78%) of workers say that they do not feel under direct pressure to work through their break but that it is a cultural issue for most workplaces.

The concept of a lunch break is not simply to get some food into your system it’s a key part of remaining focussed and energised for your day. That 30 minute break allows you the time to refocus and let off steam whether it’s having coffee with a colleague or going for a quick walk.

Failing to take a time out can lead to resentment towards your employer, your colleagues, can contribute to stress related illness and cause a rift in your personal life.

We all need that little bit of head space even if were eating a sandwich whilst doing it. Make time to take a short break, it may not seem like the most efficient option but you’re not a machine and it will pay dividends in the long run.