Get Away From My Desk: Why It's Important And How To Do It

As someone who spends most of their workday at a desk, I know firsthand how easy it is to get stuck in a rut. Sitting in the same spot for hours on end can be draining, both physically and mentally. That’s why I started making a conscious effort to “get away from my desk” more often. In this article, I’ll share why it’s important and give you some tips for doing it.

Why It’s Important to Get Away From Your Desk

There are a lot of good reasons to take a break from your desk, both for your health and productivity:

Reduced eye strain: Staring at a computer screen for hours on end can lead to eye strain and headaches.
Better posture: Sitting in the same position for too long can lead to poor posture, which can cause back and neck pain.
Increased productivity: Taking a break and changing your surroundings can help you come back to your work with fresh eyes and renewed focus.
Improved mental health: Sometimes all you need to clear your head and reduce stress is a change of scenery.

Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Away From Your Desk

Here are some simple steps you can take to get away from your desk:

Set a timer: Use a timer to remind yourself to take a break every hour. Even a quick five-minute break can make a big difference.
Take a walk: Get up and walk around the office, or even step outside for some fresh air.
Stretch: Do some simple stretches to relieve tension in your neck and shoulders.
Read a book: Take a break from your computer screen and read a book or magazine.
Have a snack: Take a few minutes to eat a healthy snack and refuel your body.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Getting Away From Your Desk

Here are some more ideas for getting away from your desk:

Take a yoga class during your lunch break.
Find a quiet spot to meditate or do some deep breathing exercises.
Join a walking or running group with coworkers.
Take a day off and go on a hike or nature walk.
Visit a nearby museum or art gallery.
Try a new restaurant or coffee shop for lunch.
Take a dance class after work.
Join a book club and attend meetings during your lunch break.
Volunteer for a local organization during your free time.
Take a day trip to a nearby city or town.

Pros and Cons of Getting Away From Your Desk

Like anything, there are pros and cons to getting away from your desk.

Pros:

Improved health and posture
Increased productivity
Reduced stress
Opportunities for new experiences and learning

Cons:

Less time spent on work-related tasks
Possible guilt or anxiety about taking breaks
Difficulty finding time in a busy schedule
Possible disconnection from coworkers or work-related tasks

My Personal Review and Suggestions for Getting Away From Your Desk

Overall, I’ve found that getting away from my desk has been incredibly beneficial for my health and productivity. I’ve also discovered new hobbies and interests through my breaks, like hiking and trying new restaurants. Here are a few suggestions based on my experience:

Start small: Don’t feel like you have to take a three-hour break every day. Even a few minutes away from your desk can make a big difference.
Be intentional: Plan your breaks ahead of time so you don’t feel guilty or anxious about taking them.
Try new things: Use your breaks as an opportunity to try new activities or experiences.
Collaborate with coworkers: Find ways to get away from your desk with coworkers, like going on a lunchtime walk or attending a yoga class together.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How often should I take a break from my desk?

A: It’s a good idea to take a quick break at least once an hour. If you’re able to, try to take a longer break (30 minutes to an hour) at least once a day.

Q: What if I don’t have time to take a break?

A: Even if you’re busy, taking a few minutes to stretch or get up and walk around can help you refocus and be more productive in the long run.

Q: What if I feel guilty about taking breaks?

A: Remember that taking breaks is essential for your health and productivity. If you’re feeling guilty, try to reframe your thinking and view breaks as a necessary part of your workday.

Q: What if my boss doesn’t support taking breaks?

A: It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being. If you’re not able to take breaks during the workday, consider finding ways to incorporate them into your free time or before/after work.