This Working Life It's okay, you can take a break
Jun 27, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kira Schabram, an Assistant Professor at Smeal College of Business, dives into the crucial yet often overlooked importance of taking breaks at work. She reveals how regular breaks can combat burnout and enhance productivity, especially in high-stress roles. With insights into 'compromise breaks' and the need for supportive work cultures, Kira shares practical strategies for recognizing when to pause and ways to incorporate joyful, micro breaks into daily routines. A must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed!
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Breaks Are Preventative Maintenance
- Skipping breaks accumulates as bodily wear and tear, risking catastrophic breakdowns like neglected infrastructure.
- Preventative maintenance through breaks helps sustain performance and well-being long-term.
Animal Shelter Workers' Survival
- Animal shelter workers who survive long-term take breaks and maintain lives outside work.
- They avoid feeling solely responsible and rely on team support, enabling sustained impact.
Breaking Pressure Is Multi-Faceted
- Internal and external pressures make workers skip breaks, thinking short-term gains outweigh costs.
- This short-sightedness leads to deterioration in long-term health and performance.