Why HR is Rooting for Lunch Breaks
Photo by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash
In the hustle and bustle of the modern workplace, the significance of lunch breaks often gets overshadowed by tight deadlines and pressing workloads. As an employer striving for a high-performing team, it's time to recognise the strategic value of those midday pauses.
A Wake-Up Call
Recent findings reveal a concerning trend – over a third of employees choose to forgo their lunch breaks. The workplace's hectic nature seems to be a significant driver behind this shift, underscoring the urgency for HR to intervene and reinstate the importance of regular breaks.
A Smart Investment in Productivity
Contrary to popular belief, the lunch break is not merely a mandatory pause in the workday. It is a strategic opportunity for employees to reset their minds and bodies. Engaging in non-work-related activities, be it savouring a meal, staying hydrated, or taking a brisk walk, contributes to a more focused and relaxed workforce. The duration matters less than the quality of the break; encouraging activities that genuinely unwind employees leads to a rejuvenated and concentrated team.
Mitigating Burnout
The consequences of prolonged stress are detrimental to individuals and the organisations they serve. By actively advocating for lunch breaks, HR can prevent burnout. A workforce that takes breaks returns to tasks with renewed mental clarity and concentration.
Team Collaboration and Unity
Lunch breaks, beyond providing nourishment, offer moments for employees to socialise and build stronger bonds. HR can contribute by ensuring comfortable spaces for such interactions.
What can employers do?
Flexi-Lunch Schedules: Allow employees to have flexible lunch hours, enabling them to choose a time that suits their personal needs and circadian rhythm. This promotes a sense of autonomy and ensures that the break aligns with everyone’s peak productivity.
Food Truck Fridays: Arrange for a food truck to visit the workplace every Friday, offering employees diverse and exciting lunch options.
Mindfulness Corners: Designate quiet corners with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and calming decor. Encourage employees to spend their lunch breaks in these mindfulness corners, promoting mental well-being.
Office Potluck: Host themed potluck lunches where employees can bring dishes representing their cultural backgrounds. This promotes diversity, inclusivity, and a deeper understanding of colleagues' traditions.
Express Learning Pods: Set up interactive learning pods equipped with tablets or laptops where employees can access short, informative courses or TED Talks during lunch breaks, promoting continuous learning.
Bottom-line
As an employer, you influence to reshape the narrative around breaks. Invest in your team's well-being and watch your business soar to new heights!