I was in a busy food court recently and saw a sign that caught my attention. While other restaurants were busy with people placing orders and milling around, this one restaurant had a sign in front of it. It struck me as odd initially. Why would any restaurant lose the opportunity to turn down customers during a busy time? Why would you take a break when you can’t shut down the restaurant?
As I ate my meal, I thought about the sign more and more. I had to go back and take a photo of it. The more I thought about it, the more valuable I thought it was. Schedule those brakes. Make it a priority and take those breaks whether you’re working at a restaurant in a food court or in your own personal life. It is important that we take those breaks. Take time to reflect, sync, refresh, and recharge.
Kudos to this establishment for having the courage to take care of their employees and give them those breaks. I challenge you as you read this to think: how are you taking care of yourself? When are your scheduled breaks and what are you doing during that time to recharge? Scrolling on your cell phone or answering emails is not a break. Here are three quick easy recommendations:
Take a quick walk: a 10 to 15-minute walk doesn’t only burn calories but gets your oxygen going and gets you moving.
Do a breathing exercise or quiet meditation. Repeat an affirming sentence to yourself quietly uninterrupted.
Just sit quietly. Quiet eases the souls and wakes creativity. It’s amazing what happens when you sit quietly and let thoughts and ideas live and stir in your mind.
If I can help you in any way don’t hesitate to reach out at @andrewmarotta21 on Twitter. Contact me if you’re looking to book your next motivational or inspirational speaker.
Andrew Marotta
Teacher | Principal | Writer | Public Speaker
