We’ve all been there. It’s 3 p.m. and you’ve hit a wall. Your creative juices are no longer flowing and it seems like every sound, sight and smell is a distraction. But plodding through an eight-hour work day with no breaks doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll get more done. In fact, many studies suggest you are more productive and creative with breaks.

According to an article in Ragan’s.com, “Survey says most PR pros eat lunch at their desks,” 69 percent of public relations professional eat lunch at their desk. That means that 69 percent of PR pros are missing out on a natural break in the day to recharge. I think that the numbers are likely very similar in many other professional services organizations. Of course, there are days when everyone needs to power through, but you can actually increase productivity by taking a break.

I’ve noticed that if I am hungry or tired or mentally drained, I make more mistakes. I’ve made it a point to take time during the day for a walk, run, lunch or errands to help step away from the computer. I often have some of my most creative thoughts away from my desk. I can then incorporate these ideas with a fresh perspective when I return. To this end, an article in Huffington Post, “Nap Benefits: 6 Reasons To Snooze On National Napping Day,” suggests that napping improves your alertness, learning and memory, creativity and productivity. Researchers discovered that after napping there is a burst of activity in the right hemisphere, the side of the brain linked to creativity.

At Communiqué Public Relations, we are continuously looking for new ways to energize our culture and inspire creativity. One of our team members spearheaded a pushup challenge where every other day at 3:30 p.m., we follow a program to get us to 100 pushups! I know that I’ve made some great progress. It is not only a fun team-building activity in which we have the option to participate, but it is a great break in the afternoon. I return to my desk rejuvenated (and a little sore) and ready to muscle through the rest of my to-do list.

No matter what you like to do with your “break,” make a point to take one. It is good for your mind, body and your job.

If you are a PR pro that values productivity and creativity, and are interested in getting to 100 pushups (totally optional), we’re hiring! Visit our careers page for more information.