Data suggests that during the pandemic we’ve been doing more work than ever before, as the removal of commuting and open office distractions have led to a surge in productivity.  It’s also led to a surge in burnout, especially among workers who also have homeschooling and caring responsibilities.

New research from North Carolina State University suggests that microbreaks may help us to buffer this tiredness.  They classify microbreaks as short, voluntary, and impromptu breathers taken during the workday.  They could include activities such as chatting with a colleague, stretching, or grabbing a snack.

“A microbreak is, by definition, short,” the researchers say. “But a five-minute break can be golden if you take it at the right time. Our study shows that it is in a company’s best interest to give employees autonomy in terms of taking microbreaks when they are needed — it helps employees effectively manage their energy and engage in their work throughout the day.”

Taking a break

The research is based on a couple of experiments that investigated the role microbreaks play in our workday, with a particular focus on how we strive to maintain our energy levels throughout the day.  They also examined the factors that influence our ability and willingness to take microbreaks, and indeed what we tended to do during them.

Participants across the study were required to complete surveys aimed at understanding things such as their sleep quality, level of tiredness, and the engagement they felt at work each day.  The aim was to examine the data for daily fluctuations in each factor.

The results were pretty clearcut.  When workers arrived at work already tired, they were far more likely to take microbreaks, which in turn resulted in them being more likely to maintain their energy levels throughout the day.  This then meant they were more likely to meet the demands of their job and engage with their colleagues.

“Basically, microbreaks help you manage your energy resources over the course of the day — and that’s particularly beneficial on days when you’re tired,” the researchers say.

What’s more, the data also showed that people were far more likely to take microbreaks if they felt that their employer cared about their general wellbeing and health.

“When people think their employer cares about their health, they feel more empowered to freely make decisions about when to take microbreaks and what type of microbreaks to take,” the researchers conclude. “And that is ultimately good for both the employer and the employee.“