In Microsoft’s latest study of brain wave activity, researchers confirmed what many of us sense from experience: Back-to-back virtual meetings are stressful. But the research also points to a simple remedy—short breaks.
With digital fatigue on the rise, perhaps it’s worth considering micro-breaks between meetings. Microsoft released new data that shows how breaking up back-to-back meetings can reduce stress levels. Even five or ten minutes in-between sessions allow us to remain focused and engaged.
The research showed three main takeaways.
1. Breaks between meetings allow the brain to “reset,” reducing a cumulative buildup of stress across sessions.
2. Back-to-back meetings can decrease our ability to focus and engage.
3. Transitioning between meetings can be a source of high stress.
“Our research shows breaks are important, not just to make us less exhausted by the end of the day, but to actually improve our ability to focus and engage while in those meetings,” says Michael Bohan, senior director of Microsoft’s Human Factors Engineering group, who oversaw the project.
Researchers from the study said to think of viewing our workday as a marathon, not a sprint. Taking short breaks can help reduce stress and keep us more engaged. That means that our productivity will benefit as well.
“My team has run studies in our lab that show when you read, it calms your mind and allows you to think more clearly,” said Bohan. “It engages and integrates more areas of your brain differently. You can think of it as a warm-up or a boost for your brain. So, have a book on your desk, and when you have a break, read for five or ten minutes. You’ll get more reading in and feel less stressed.”
Microsoft Outlook’s calendar feature now includes default settings to shorten meetings and include breaks. You can set the intervals individually, or even better; the organization could do it centrally.
What do you think of this research? Are you willing to implement Outlook’s options to shorten meetings and plan for breaks?
Read more about it, including strategies for making breaks successful in “Research Proves Your Brain Needs Breaks”: http://ow.ly/JJOW30rGpxO
