Now, you might think that taking regular breaks is a no-brainer when it comes to reducing stress and boosting productivity. But this research suggests it’s not that simple. The study found that when employees feel overwhelmed by their workload, they are less likely to take breaks because they perceive them as a luxury they can’t afford. They fear falling behind on their tasks or appearing lazy in the eyes of their colleagues or supervisors. So instead of recouping their energy and refocusing their minds, they soldier on through the stress and fatigue, often leading to burnout.
So, what can we take away from this? It’s important for employers to understand the psychological barriers that prevent their employees from taking breaks. By creating a supportive work environment that encourages regular breaks and destigmatizes rest, employers can help alleviate stress and improve overall employee well-being. And employees should also be aware of the importance of self-care and advocate for their own mental health needs. Taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness or laziness; it’s a necessary part of maintaining productivity and happiness in the workplace.
To delve deeper into the research behind this phenomenon, check out the full article!
Heavy workloads make employees feel a greater need for a break, but new research finds they may actually discourage employees from taking breaks at work despite causing high levels of stress, fatigue, and poor performance.