5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Lunch Break
Being intentional about how you spend your lunch break can empower you to show up as your best self.
While it’s easy to spend that time picking up a quick lunch nearby or scrolling on your phone while you eat, being more intentional about how you spend your break can actually give you an energy boost, lower your stress, and set you up for better focus when you get back to work. If you need some help getting started, try these tips:
Bring lunch from home
Avoid highly-processed convenience foods from fast food restaurants and vending machines by bringing your own lunch. It’s an investment that pays off financially, nutritionally, and by saving you some time at lunch. Pick one night every week to prep some healthy work lunches in bulk.
Take a quick walk outside
Stepping outside for a quick walk during your lunch break can be incredibly beneficial for your mind and body. Little movement breaks during the day — what researchers call "microbursts of activity" — can prompt an observable boost in energy and mood. Plus, simply being outdoors and surrounded by nature can inspire you to be a more creative, more present version of yourself.
Put your phone away
When you’re on your phone while you’re eating, it’s difficult to focus on your meal. And research shows that fully focusing on your lunch can help you become more aware of your body's fullness cues, which prevents overeating and encourages you to fully enjoy your meal. At your next lunch break, try putting your phone away and being more aware of what you’re eating. You’ll be surprised how much more enjoyable and satisfying your meal will be.
Invite a co-worker to join you
Whether you’re eating lunch outside on a bench or going for a walk around the block, invite your co-worker to join you! Spending time with a teammate while you’re off the clock can help you build deeper connections and catch up in a casual setting. And research shows that making time for moments of connection during the day can boost our mood and our well-being.
Set an intention for the second half of your day
Your lunch break is a great opportunity to reset. Whether you had a busy and stressful start to your day, or if you’re just feeling tired, use your break as a chance to set a new intention that will carry you through the rest of your day. Tell yourself, “I had a tough start, but the rest of the day will be great,” or “I can handle whatever today throws my way.” Giving yourself a little pep talk at lunch will give you the boost you need to conquer the rest of your day.