Image courtesy of modomatic
For many of us, we do not like to be interrupted when we’re working and on a roll. I am one who is guilty of this and could easily sit for hours at a time at my computer without a break. This type of a routine however, can cause all types of problems: burnout, headache, extra stress, muscle problems (carpal tunnel anyone?), eye strain and more. By the end of my workday, my eyes used to sting terribly, my back would ache and I would often get shooting pain up and down my right hand and arm (my “mouse-clicking arm”). I would also find myself extremely irritable with a very low patience level.
I then read an article about how vitally important it is to give yourself breaks away from the computer at regular intervals. I now set a timer for 50 minutes after which I take a 5 minute break (okay…sometimes a10 minute break) during which I walk away from the computer, stretch, get a glass of water, have a snack, pop outside for a breath of fresh air, etc. It has made a world of difference and the symptoms I mentioned above seemed to disappear overnight. I also find that I can accomplish a lot more during the day.
I have a little timer program for the Mac called TTimer, which I set for 45 minute intervals while I’m working. The application also allows me to set multiple timers (so I can time my laundry and the pie in the oven at the same time). This type of application is ideal for those who get so focused on their work that they lose track of time. I’m sure there are many such programs available for Windows users as well.
So give your eyes, muscles and stress level a break – by taking a break!
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