5 Sanity-Saving (and Productivity-Producing) Tips for Busy Work Schedules  

You know those days where you look at the calendar, or your to-do list, and it looks like there’s no time for you to get out for lunch, let alone take time to run to the restroom?

Yeah. Me too. And unsurprisingly, we’re not alone. An NPR story from earlier this year said: “Fewer American workers are taking time for lunch. Research shows that only 1 in 5 five people steps away for a midday meal. Most workers are simply eating at their desks.”  Yikes.

A younger (more inexperienced me) would be shocked that I’m actually saying this, but it’s exactly on these kind of seemingly chaotic and busy days when you NEED to take a lunch, attend that brainstorm session, or just physically get out of your work space for the sake of your creativity and sanity.

Because powering through the day without any sort of break leaves you feeling lousy, depleted of energy, and void of creativity. (Been there, done that… too many times).

And there’s science to prove it. The same NPR story said:

“…Studies have also found that the longer you stay at work, the more important it is to get outside of the office, even if it’s just for a few minutes, because creativity can take a hit when you don’t change environments.”

So how do you make the time for a rest or creative recharge during busy days? Well, it’s definitely not easy – especially with all of us being tasked with doing more with a lot less (i.e. time, resources, and money).  It’s more about sticking to your guns — which I fully realize feels more like a nice “idea” rather than a legitimate, viable option. But hear me out: It is your time, after all. And only you know how to best use it to be your most productive, efficient, inspired self. So following are some ways to ensure you get that chance to take a breather.

5 Ways to Revamp Your Roster of To-Do’s

Prioritize What Must Get Done: At the beginning of the day, make lists (mentally or physically) that detail exactly what needs to be done. Of course deadlines are important, and need to be met. You shouldn’t neglect those, because, hello, your job depends on it. So, know early on where you stand with the day ahead of you – sort of like a “task forecast,” if you will, and figure out the tasks that MUST get done before the day’s end.  Then, tackle those first. This will help you determine when, where and for how long you can schedule in some time for creativity, a break or lunch.

“Schedule,” “Block off,“ “Fence in…” Whatever you call it, make sure you set aside time for… everything. Yep, even lunch, coffee hours with coworkers, brainstorm sessions – all of it. Seeing it on your calendar or your to-do list will prove to you it’s important. Some days, for whatever reason, you might not be able to get in as long of a walk or take a full-hour lunch, but don’t completely omit them. The point is, try your best to honor the time you’ve set aside.

Protect Things that Matter: Your time, your passions, your sanity, your creativity – these are all important things to hold sacred, even during the busiest days. Your mental health and physical health will thank you for it. So do the things necessary to protect those things: get some fresh air, read those professional development articles you’ve been meaning to get to, listen to a podcast you enjoy, and get that lunchtime workout in. In other words, if it will help you feel better (and ultimately work better), do it.

Think Outside the (Lunch) Box: OK, real talk. Work can be stressful; things have to get done no matter what, and bosses need things now. These are the times, clearly, where you have to be creative with how you take breaks. So you can’t head to the sushi restaurant for lunch — but maybe instead you’re able to get some takeout and bring it back. Or maybe you don’t have time for the full brainstorm session, but you’re able to pop in at the beginning, and offer your ideas before heading out. Or, maybe even, you could start your workday (before you even head into the office) with coffee or breakfast with a buddy. These are all different paths that lead you to a similar destination: a mental break or inspired mind.

Breaks are Normal: This one can be hard to remember, because for many of us, that nasty little guilt-monster creeps in whenever we feel we’re not working ourselves to the bone every hour of every day. But, whew – is that ever exhausting?! Enjoy the break from work (whatever is) and relish the opportunity to recharge!

So, no matter how long you set aside during your workdays or what you end up doing, give yourself a break, literally and figuratively. You’ll find yourself more willing, ready and creative to tackle your workload if you’ve temporarily removed yourself from the stress and monotony that can accompany those nonstop days.