Employee mental health wellbeing has been on the minds of many leaders as the pandemic stretches on. Workers looking to perform their best in the workplace may stay later, take on extra projects, and rarely step away from their workspace. But working longer may not always mean working smarter. In fact, multiple studies have found that taking breaks can reduce or prevent stress, help boost your performance at work, and reduce the need for longer recoveries.
This year, we have asked leaders from diverse fields across our global organisations about their perspectives on taking breaks and disconnecting as part of our wellbeing series. Below, hear from six leaders about the importance of taking time to relax – and how they encourage their teams to do the same.
Why is taking a break so important, and what do you do to relax and disconnect from work?
Corinne Ripoche, Regional President Adecco Group Americas
“It is important to disconnect to take some time to be present and mindful. Finding the right balance is essential to finding enjoyment in your work. It helps keep us steady through the waves and keeps you in an acceptable range of stress. If we do not stay centred with our two feet on the ground, this has an impact on you, on your mind, on your body and on your team.”