Even if you are very busy at work, you still need to find at least 20 minutes to chat with a colleague over a cup of coffee or tea. Such rituals must be strictly observed. Why — scientists explained.
You arrive at work on time, sit down at your computer right away, and even forget to eat. Or you run around all day trying to complete all the tasks for the day, as there is so much to get done. Do you recognize yourself? Many believe that this pace of work ensures maximum productivity, as you manage to accomplish as much as possible.
In reality, one should not forget about a proper lunch, as well as breaks for conversations with colleagues about non-work-related topics. You can discuss the weather, a new dress, or your favorite show. It would be great if you did this over a cup of coffee, scientists say.
Vivienne Tam, a PhD student at McGill University in Montreal, shared her experience. She left her home country of Canada for several months to work on a project with colleagues from France. On her very first day at the new workplace, she was invited to a coffee break. Even if the employees were very busy, no one skipped this ritual — scientists made sure to take at least a little time to chat in an informal setting and share personal stories, according to Science.
It turned out that coffee breaks have a special significance. First, when you drink coffee together, you can casually discuss some work-related issues. It is often at this moment that creative ideas are born, which would not have emerged if you had been sitting alone with boring reports.
Second, this way you become a real team. The awkwardness disappears, and there is no longer the notion that each of you is on your own. Yes, you are doing specific work, but you have a common goal, which starts to inspire.
Third, employees experience a decrease in stress levels! Communication, jokes, and exchanging opinions — all of this helps to unwind and view the day more positively.
And finally, one more important nuance: coffee breaks help to eliminate impostor syndrome. This psychological phenomenon occurs when a person cannot accept their achievements, believing they do not deserve them. They perceive their successes as mere luck, which undermines self-esteem and leads to feelings of unhappiness.
"Meetings provide an opportunity to relax, share life stories, and empathize with people who understand what you are going through. For two years, I couldn’t get my research off the ground because I was sitting alone in front of the monitor. However, as soon as I started regularly communicating with colleagues, I found the strength and inspiration," says Vivienne Tam.
So what does this all lead to? Coffee breaks are necessary for both employees and employers. The former gain energy, inspiration, and boost their self-esteem, while the latter get cheerful employees who perform their jobs better. So make sure to dedicate at least 15 minutes to this ritual, even if it seems there is no time for it.
