Micro-Breaks
A Simple Strategy for a Healthier, Happier Workplace
In any fast-paced environment, micro-breaks can be a game-changer for mental wellness and productivity. These brief pauses—often just a minute or two—help recharge employees, prevent burnout, and keep focus sharp. Embracing micro-breaks can enhance the well-being of your team and lead to improved customer experiences, all while creating a positive workplace culture.
Why Micro-Breaks Matter
- Support Employee Well-Being
Micro-breaks provide a mental reset, reducing stress and helping to prevent burnout. They’re quick moments to step back, breathe, and re-center, which can make a meaningful difference in mental health over time. - Boost Productivity
Briefly stepping away from a task allows employees to refocus and return with renewed energy. This boost in attention translates into more efficient, high-quality work, benefiting both the team and the business. - Enhance Customer Service
Employees who take micro-breaks are more engaged and attentive, which positively impacts customer interactions and service quality. A refreshed team is ready to go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for guests. - Promote Physical Health
Micro-breaks also reduce physical strain, especially in physically demanding roles. A minute of stretching, deep breathing, or just standing to reset can make a big difference in overall comfort and health. - Foster a Positive Culture
Encouraging micro-breaks shows that the company values employee wellness, building a supportive environment where staff feel respected and empowered.
Taking Micro-Breaks During Shifts
Micro-breaks aren’t about extending scheduled break times—they’re about finding brief moments within a shift to reset. These breaks can be as short as 30 seconds to a minute, with simple activities that bring calm and focus without taking employees away from their responsibilities.
Ideas for Micro-Breaks
Explore these quick break activities from the Workplace Strategies for Mental Health resource, tailored for different tourism and hospitality settings:
- Tidy Up Your Work Area
Hotel: Encourage housekeeping staff to take a moment to organize their carts and supplies before moving to the next room. This small action can promote efficiency and provide mental clarity. - Imagine Your Ideal Vacation
Ski Hill: Ski instructors can pause for a minute to envision their perfect ski trip while waiting for their next group. This quick visualization brings excitement and energy to their upcoming lesson. - Plan a Healthy Meal
Museum: Exhibition staff can use a brief pause to think about a nutritious snack for later, helping them stay fueled and engaged as they interact with visitors. - Body Scan and Relaxation
Golf Course: Groundskeepers can take a moment to breathe deeply and mentally release tension from their muscles, preparing for the next stretch of work with renewed comfort. - Share a Positive Message
Restaurant: Place a whiteboard in the kitchen or staff room where team members can leave encouraging messages, jokes, or riddles for a quick morale boost.
Building a Culture of Micro-Breaks
Employers can empower their teams to incorporate micro-breaks by introducing these ideas and brainstorming additional ones that fit the unique rhythm of their workplace. Use the Workplace Strategies for Mental Health resource as a starting point and invite staff to share their preferences and commit to break activities together.
By embracing and encouraging micro-breaks, tourism and hospitality employers can foster a mentally resilient, energized, and customer-focused workforce—one small break at a time.
Have questions? Want help with psychological health and safety resources and plans in your workplace? Contact one of our Mental Health & Psychological Safety Consultants for a free consultation!