Make Lunch Count: The Case for Reclaiming Your Break

Amidst the relentless pace of the modern workday, the humble lunch break has dwindled to a mere afterthought for many. According to a Tork Survey in 2021, a staggering 39% of people only occasionally, rarely, or never take breaks during the workday. Worse yet, nearly a quarter (22%) report feelings of guilt or judgment for stepping away from work midday. This neglect of lunchtime not only undermines our well-being but also our productivity and creativity. Here's why it's crucial to make lunch count and how you can transform it into a vital part of your day.

The Undervalued Power of a Break

Working through lunch might seem like a productivity boost, but it's a false economy. Skipping breaks can lead to burnout, reduced creativity, and diminished job satisfaction. In contrast, a proper lunch break can refresh the mind, restore energy, and enhance afternoon performance. It's time to challenge the stigma surrounding midday breaks and recognize them as essential to our health and efficiency.

Nutrition: A Midday Must

The Tork Survey's findings spotlight a worrying trend towards neglecting not just the break itself but the chance to nourish our bodies and brains. Skipping lunch or grabbing a fast, unhealthy option contributes to the afternoon slump—dipping energy, focus, and mood. A well-balanced lunch, on the other hand, can sustain your energy levels, sharpen your focus, and keep you feeling satisfied till dinner.

Embracing a Fulfilling Lunch Break

1. Prioritise Planning: Combat the midday rush by planning your lunches. Quick, healthy options or leftovers can save the day when schedules get tight.
2. Break Away from Your Desk: Encourage a culture shift by eating away from your workspace. Whether it’s a break room or a park, changing your environment can significantly enhance the quality of your break.
3. Savour the Moment: Choose foods that you genuinely enjoy and that are good for you. Experiment with recipes to keep lunchtime exciting and satisfying.
4. Integrate Movement: A short walk post-lunch can aid digestion and reinvigorate your body, readying you for the tasks ahead.
5. Truly Disconnect: Allow yourself a complete break from work-related screens and conversations. Engage in activities that relax your mind, whether it's reading, listening to music, or meditating.
6. Those of you who follow me on my other social channels also know I am obsessed with my EnergyFizz O'Clock Mocktail times.

Lunch Inspiration

• Chickpea and Spinach Salad: Full of fibre and protein, it's a lunch that keeps you full and focused.
• Chicken and Avocado Burrito Bowl: A balanced blend of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs for sustained energy.
• Asian-Inspired Tofu Buddha Bowl: Packed with nutrients and flavours to break the midday monotony.

If you need more inspiration check out my 120 free recipes in my App today!

https://thelovelifecommunity.mvt.so/love-life-recipe-bank

Conclusion

The statistics from the Tork Survey 2021 are a wake-up call to reclaim our lunch breaks. Making lunch count goes beyond mere nutrition—it's about valuing our well-being and recognizing the inherent worth of rest in our workday. By taking intentional steps to enjoy a meaningful break, we not only nourish our bodies but also cultivate a more fulfilling, productive work life. Let's shed the guilt and make lunch a non-negotiable part of our day.

Aislíng