While it’s easy to get zoned into your work and eat at your desk, it’s very beneficial to step away during lunch, which is why, here at UWM, we require all employees to take an hour lunch. These are the five reasons why you should make time for that lunch break.

While it’s easy to get zoned into your work and eat at your desk, it’s very beneficial to step away during lunch, which is why, here at UWM, we require all employees to take an hour lunch. These are the five reasons why you should make time for that lunch break.

1. It creates a natural half-way point for your day

If you eat lunch at your desk while you work, it’s easier to lose track of time and all the things you need to get done for the day. Having a clear stopping point midway through the day gives you time to take inventory of what you’ve completed so far and re-prioritize what still needs to be done before leaving for the day.

2. It gives you time to attend to other non-work-related tasks

Your texts, personal emails, online shopping and grocery lists can be done while you are on your lunch break instead of distracting you throughout the day. Pro tip: Make a list of these other tasks as they come up throughout the day so you can knock them out during your break!

3. It helps get the creative juices flowing

Taking a break from work, especially when focusing on a difficult problem, can give you the boost you need to solve whatever issue you are working through. It forces you to break out of your current mindset and gives you a different perspective. Sometimes the best way to overcome writer’s block is just a simple change in environment.

4. It boosts your productivity for the rest of the day

Fully detaching from your work for that hour lunch break allows your mind and body to unwind and recover from the stresses of your workday. Spending a little time doing something other than work helps boost energy, increase creativity and lower stress and anxiety. When your break is over, you’ll be renewed and ready to take on whatever is waiting for you back at your desk.

5. It allows you to build relationships with your fellow team members

Your lunch hour is the perfect time to bond with the people you work with outside of the work environment and work-related tasks. You can also take this opportunity to network with people outside of your department, learn more about the company and you refresh your point of view on problem solving. Even our CEO, Mat Ishbia, comes to the cafeteria multiple times a week and finds a team member he doesn’t know to sit with. He learns more about them and their role and asks them the famous question, “What would you change if you were CEO?”.

When deciding between eating at your desk or taking your lunch break, consider the benefits of enhancing your mental, physical and social well-being. Use that hour to your full advantage!