When deadlines are looming and emails keep piling up, it’s tempting to skip your lunch break or eat at your desk. However, taking a proper break isn’t just a luxury—it’s an essential part of staying productive and maintaining wellbeing. It prevents burnout and keeps you efficient and productive for longer, over the long run. Yes, you can skip it in a pinch, but your general practice should be to take it.
To explore this, we spoke to professionals in office support jobs in London to find out why lunch breaks really matter.
· Time to recharge
“I used to think skipping my lunch break would make me more productive,” says Clara, who works in HR. “But I realised it actually had the opposite effect. By mid-afternoon, I’d feel drained and struggle to focus.”
Clara now makes a point of stepping away from her desk, even if it’s just for 20 minutes. “It’s amazing how a short break can reset your mind. I come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle my tasks.”
For Raj, a credit controller in accounts, taking time away from his screen is essential. “Staring at a computer all day can really strain your eyes and your brain. I make sure to take my full hour, even if it’s just to walk around the block.”
· Improved productivity
Many desk-based workers find that stepping away from their desks improves their output. “I’ve found that I’m actually more productive when I take a proper lunch break,” says Ellie, a finance manager. “It gives me time to clear my head, and when I get back to work, I’m much more focused.”
Samir, who works in customer service, agrees: “If I try to power through the day without stopping, I end up making mistakes. A break helps me reset and ensures I’m doing my best work.”
· A chance to connect
Lunch breaks are also an opportunity to connect with colleagues, which can boost morale and team spirit. “I try to have lunch with my team at least once a week,” says Tasha, a team manager in sales. “It’s a great way to build relationships and catch up on non-work-related conversations.”
Building strong connections at work is especially important in office support jobs in London, where collaboration is often key to success. “I’ve found that having lunch with colleagues makes it easier to work together,” says Luke, who works in a large marketing team. “It builds trust and helps us communicate better.”
· Supporting mental wellbeing
Taking time for yourself during the day isn’t just good for productivity—it’s vital for your mental health. “I use my lunch break to decompress,” says Zara, a PA. “Sometimes that means grabbing a coffee with a friend, and other times it’s sitting in a quiet park with a book.”
Ben, an office coordinator, highlights the importance of stepping away from work pressures. “It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness, especially in London. But taking that time for yourself can make all the difference in managing stress.”
Making the most of your break
How you spend your lunch break can vary, but the key is to do something that helps you feel refreshed. “I plan my breaks based on my energy levels,” says Neha, an executive assistant. “If I feel sluggish, I’ll go for a brisk walk. If I’m stressed, I’ll use the time to listen to music.”
Taking a proper break can make your workday far more effective and enjoyable. So next time you’re tempted to skip your lunch, remember: it really does matter.
Are you looking for a new job where it’s seen as valuable to take your lunch break? Register as a candidate.