Brits struggle to switch off

How often do you get time to unwind?

The British workforce has been revealed to spend their lunch, breaks and off-time to take part in other busywork. Research by Electric Tobacconist has revealed that workers suffering from Time Poverty are no longer taking a breather during their time off, instead using the time to tackle other problems in their day-to-day, with the vape provider raising concerns that we’re becoming addicted to being busy.

More than 50% of office workers admit to using breaks to catch up on personal admin, while nearly one in four use mini-breaks and smoking breaks to settle an argument with family or friends. For many, the opportunity to take time away from the stress of work was seen as the perfect time to lift a weight off their shoulders, ticking off a personal job from their to-do list, which had been distracting them or playing on their minds.

“Although it’s great to see that Brits are finding new ways to utilise their daily work breaks, these breaks have been implemented for a reason and are designed to help recharge and refocus the mind,” said Pascal Culverhouse, founder and CEO of Electric Tobacconist. “We need to remember that even though schedules are busy and lives are hectic, being addicted to being busy isn’t good and there is a lot to be said for having regular mini breaks throughout the day.”

One in three admitted to spending their time catching up with social media, and 44% admitted they try to spend time talking with their colleagues. When it comes to PAs, many will opt to remove themselves from technology and go for a walk instead of remaining plugged-in. While tackling your personal to-do lists can leave you energised, it can leave the working public without any downtime.

“While this can leave you more focused when you return to work at the end of the break,” continued Culverhouse. “It’s also important to have balance and giving yourself time to rest and recharge is important, too.”

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