I think most people believe that it’s good to take a lunch break – and the proper thing to do during that time is to eat with your coworkers. You should laugh! You should tell funny stories about your children and/or pets! You should bond! Because that’s the healthiest and most relaxing thing to do, right?
Not necessarily. Research indicates that the best thing to do during your lunch break is whatever you want to do. Do you want to take a walk outside by yourself? Do you want to take a nap in your car? Do you want to work at your desk? Do it! Researchers have found that people feel most satisfied and rested when they are able to choose what they want to do with their lunch break. If you feel forced to work at your desk while you eat, then it’s detrimental to your mood and health. But if you actually want to work at your desk while you eat, then it’s the right thing to do. Choosing how you want to spend your time is the most important factor.
So if you don’t want to eat with your coworkers, that’s OK. They’ll get over it. Do what you want with your lunch break. It’s your time. You choose!
Linn, A. (2013, October 9). Why lunch with your colleagues could be stressing you out. Today Money. Retrieved from http://www.today.com/money/why-lunch-your-colleagues-could-be-stressing-you-out-8C11339490
