Breaks and Performance: An Undeniable Connection

The rise of telecommuting, hot desking, and coworking spaces has changed how people take breaks. Today, breaks can take various forms: • Casual micro-breaks, such as having a coffee in a coworking lounge designed for social interactions. • Digital detox breaks, stepping away from screens to reduce eye and mental fatigue. • Collaborative breaks, where spontaneous interactions in open spaces foster creativity and teamwork.

While these environments offer greater freedom, they also pose new challenges to ensure that employees actually take the necessary time to rest.

The concept of a break has evolved: it is no longer an automatic reflex, and in some cases, even lunch breaks have become shorter. To prevent this from negatively affecting employee well-being, companies can implement strategies such as creating dedicated relaxation zones or integrating scheduled break reminders into digital calendars, as Microsoft France has done.

Far from becoming obsolete, breaks at work are evolving and adapting to new organizational models. Their impact on mental health, productivity, and team dynamics remains crucial. The key lies in companies recognizing their importance and designing environments that truly encourage them. In a world where flexibility rules, disconnection remains an essential pillar of well-being at work.