5 things to do in your lunch break as a freelancer
We all know that lunch is important. And it doesn’t have to be a meal. It could be a walk, or some time spent reading something interesting or even just looking out of the window.
Some research shows that people who take their lunch break are more productive and creative during the day; even though when you’re self-employed you feel like you should never stop! We need our brain to rest after breakfast and before dinner because it has been working hard all morning to make us feel awake and energized for the day. After all part of the reason you went freelance is to be in charge of your schedule, so bin the idea of sitting at your desk eating a sandwich with one hand and checking emails with the other-and instead take a look at our guide for making your lunch break more exciting as a freelancer.
Go to the gym
Not a very exciting one to start but we freelancers should make the most of off-peak discounts. Who else can be on the rowing machine at 2pm without feeling guilty? If you’re not an early bird, consider moving your workout to the gym instead-many have great communal spaces where you can do some work before and afterwards too.
Cook
Most of us grab a sandwich on our lunch break but why not cook a meal from scratch instead? Some people find it easier and better for their digestion to have their main meal in the middle of the day and then snack later. Sign up to a recipe box to get some inspiration!
Online games
Alternatively, keep your laptop open but close your writing tabs and give your brain a workout with some online games; which are a great way to stop mindlessly scrolling on your lunch break. If you’re a writer like me, crossword games are probably addictive-and a great way to expand your vocabulary too! I love this themed seasonal crossword-thanksgiving crossword
And the site has a range of crosswords and wordsearches too! These are great to play first thing too when you’re lacking inspiration and need to get your brain working.
Self-care
I propose that we take a step back and consider what we want to get out of this time. We might want to spend it on self-care, such as exercise or meditation.
It can be tough to find the time to take care of yourself. Especially when it is so easy to spend all of your time working. However, taking care of yourself leads to greater productivity in the long term. Studies have shown that people who take more exercise are not only happier but also healthier and more creative in their work. Consider things like yoga, pampering or even treat yourself to a massage if you’ve spent all morning craning your neck over a laptop.
Get outside
Finally, although it’s winter, don’t forget to get outside too! Even if it’s just for five minutes, take a walk or just sit in your garden. Do something that doesn’t involve being in the same space for 8 hours a day. Alternatively, walk to the nearest coffee shop and work there all afternoon for a change of scenery?