The Coffee Break Effect: Why Short Pauses Boost Productivity

Coffee breaks are probably as old as offices themselves. Although it may seem like wasting time, they actually have a huge psychological benefit. The “coffee break effect” is a phenomenon that actually improves work activity following a short break with coffee, camaraderie and food.

Improved focus and productivity, along with better employee satisfaction? Coffee really is an incredible beverage! Let’s look at the science behind why your break room is so valuable.

The Science Behind Short Breaks

  • Cognitive Benefits: Our brains work best when we focus intently for a set period of time and then take a short break. It allows us to digest what we’ve done and learned, and it helps us more efficiently switch between tasks.
  • Mental Health Advantages: Short breaks in our work allow us to unwind, connect and simply prevent burnout. Though many people think they do better when they work hyper-focused for long periods of time, this can lead to a significant backslide in productivity over time.

male employees conversing in breakroom

The Role of Coffee in Enhancing Breaks

  • Caffeine’s Impact on Alertness: Any prolonged activity, whether physical or mental, builds fatigue in the brain. Without getting too technical, you have a neurotransmitter called adenosine which makes you sleepy. Caffeine prevents that, providing a surge of focus and energy.
  • Social Interaction: The social aspect of the break room cannot be ignored, as communal interaction breeds creativity and fosters better engagement between employees.

Implementing Effective Coffee Breaks

  • Timing and Frequency: While we are not suggesting that you mandate coffee break schedules, it is a great idea to give employees an idea of optimal times for coffee breaks. Somewhere within the first 2 hours of their shift and the last 3 hours of their shift are great because that is when focus begins to wane.
  • Creating a Break-Friendly Culture: Many people struggle with taking breaks because they feel guilty about stepping away from their work, but as we’ve mentioned, studies indicate that taking these breaks makes them more productive. Encourage breaks by sending an email about the delicious new cold brew machine you’ve installed in the office, or asking if anybody has tried the new snacks in the fridge.

group of workers with hot coffee

Where BostonbeaN Comes In

BostonbeaN provides a wide variety of coffee and snack essentials, making the most of your employees’ precious break time. From high-quality water and soda dispensers to coffee makers that are second to none, plus a huge variety of delicious, nutritious snacks, we provide you with the tools to maximize your employees’ recharging time. These small breaks improve focus, prevent burnout and fuel the body in a way that increases productivity and overall morale.

Looking to bring quality coffee products to your break room? BostonbeaN can help! Contact us today.