Slow Down to Move Faster
If you want to boost your business’s productivity, encourage your employees to step away from their desks every now and then. Research both old and new has consistently found a strong link between short, regular breaks and higher productivity.
Here’s what studies reveal about the power of employee breaks—and how your business can use those findings to improve performance and well-being.
Research on the Benefits of Employee Breaks
Over the past decade, multiple studies have explored how breaks affect productivity, health, and morale. The research overwhelmingly shows that allowing flexibility and rest benefits both employees and organizations.
2014 Staples Study: The Importance of Regular Breaks
A 2014 Staples study found that more than 85% of employees believed taking regular breaks during the day would boost their productivity. Yet, more than one-quarter of workers didn’t take any breaks besides lunch.
Key findings included:
- 1 in 5 employees said guilt prevented them from taking breaks.
- 55% felt they couldn’t leave their desks.
- 59% said more breaks would improve work happiness.
- 43% said more breaks would improve personal happiness.
- 37% said breaks would improve their health.
The study also revealed that well-stocked and comfortable break rooms encourage employees to recharge:
- 60% said a quality break room would motivate them to take breaks.
- 76% said break rooms help them unwind and relieve stress.
Did you know?
Other ways to enhance productivity include creating private meeting areas and providing opportunities for movement throughout the day.
2019 Staples Study: Flexibility and Morale
In 2019, Staples revisited its research and found that 90% of employees said more flexible work arrangements would boost morale.
- 67% of employees said they would leave their jobs if flexibility decreased.
- Flexibility—like being able to take breaks when needed—was linked to stronger engagement and retention.
Key takeaway: Employees value the freedom to take short breaks on their own terms.
2021 North Carolina State University Study: The Power of Microbreaks
A 2021 study from North Carolina State University showed that **microbreaks—short pauses lasting around five minutes—**can significantly improve energy levels and goal achievement, especially among fatigued employees.
Researchers found that:
- Microbreaks refresh cognitive function and redirect blood flow from overworked parts of the brain.
- Employees in wellness-focused workplaces took more breaks and met goals more effectively.
- Allowing employees autonomy over when to take breaks produced the best outcomes.
2022 Review: Breaks Improve Task Performance
A 2022 systematic review led by psychologist Patricia Albulescu (West University of Timișoara, Romania) concluded that breaks enhance performance and productivity through cognitive, emotional, and motivational benefits.
The review found that:
- Microbreaks of at least 10 minutes improved focus and performance.
- Longer breaks provided even greater recovery—especially after demanding tasks.
Employees might be encouraged to take 10-minute breaks periodically and longer breaks (like 30-minute walks) after completing large projects.
Expert Insights on the Value of Employee Breaks
Experts agree that stress and overwork cost companies billions annually—and that regular breaks can reduce these costs dramatically.
John Trougakos, Associate Professor of Management at the University of Toronto Scarborough, explained:
“These costs can be reduced with regular work breaks while improving employee effectiveness, satisfaction, and reducing fatigue. Disconnecting from work can do wonders for people’s energy and mindset.”
Tom Heisroth, Senior Vice President at Staples Advantage, added:
“It’s important that employees understand the value of taking a quality break. Disconnecting can increase their happiness, health, and productivity.”
Tip:
Encourage a stress-free work environment by supporting wellness programs and helping employees develop leadership and growth goals.
How to Encourage Employee Breaks
If you want to foster a healthy, productive team, promote a workplace culture that values rest and balance. Here are a few ways to do it:
1. Provide Healthy Snacks and Beverages
Most employees enjoy snacks during breaks, and the majority prefer healthy options like nuts, granola bars, or fruit. Supplying nutritious choices supports better focus and energy levels.
2. Prioritize Comfort
Comfortable, inviting furniture makes break rooms more appealing. Provide seating areas where employees can relax, enjoy refreshments, and connect with colleagues.
3. Encourage True Disconnection
Employees should mentally detach from work during breaks. Thinking about tasks or deadlines doesn’t relieve stress—real breaks require genuine separation.
4. Normalize Breaks in Workplace Culture
Lead by example. When managers take breaks, employees feel less guilty doing the same. A break-friendly culture prevents burnout and sustains productivity.
5. Promote Positive Energy
Encourage activities that inspire good moods—stretching, brief walks, or social interactions. Positive emotions recharge the mind and boost creativity.
Employee Break Laws: What Employers Must Know
While federal labor laws don’t mandate breaks, they do regulate how breaks are paid.
- Short breaks (up to 20 minutes) count as paid work time.
- Meal breaks aren’t required to be paid unless the employer chooses to do so.
- Employers should clearly define break durations to avoid wage confusion.
Some states have stricter requirements that override federal law.
For example, in Maryland:
- Employees working 4 consecutive hours must get a 15-minute break.
- Those working 6 hours must receive a 30-minute break.
- For 8-hour shifts, employees are entitled to a 30-minute break plus an additional 15 minutes for every four extra hours worked.
Tip:
Always confirm local requirements with an employment law expert to stay compliant with state-specific regulations.
Slow Down to Move Faster
As we continue learning about productivity and burnout, it’s clear that an “always-on” mentality isn’t sustainable. Instead, alternating between focused work and intentional rest produces the best results.
Encouraging short, frequent breaks can help your team recharge, reduce stress, and perform at their best. Sometimes, slowing down is the smartest way to move faster.