Performance and Recovery Through Micro-Breaks: The Interventional Effects of Self-Regulated Micro-Breaks on Performance, Mindfulness, Fatigue, and Stress

Abstract

Effectively targeted self-regulated micro-breaks have been shown to reduce common hindering factors for work productivity: fatigue and stress. Micro-breaks are informal work interruptions that can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. According to previous studies micro-breaks have positive outcomes on well-being and performance. The present study investigated the effects of a virtual, two-hour-long micro-break workshop intervention on micro-break taking, performance, mindfulness, fatigue, and stress. The experimental design included a pre-questionnaire before the intervention and post-questionnaire four weeks after the intervention. Participants were constituted of an intervention (N= 36) and waiting list control group (N= 37). The results of the statistical analysis repeated measures MANOVA could not support the effectiveness of the intervention. Limitations are time constraints and bounded possibilities for structural and long-lasting behaviour changes. It is suggested to repeat and optimize the intervention in a longer, more individual manner, including leadership positions and structural changes. Keywords: Mindfulness, work breaks, micro-breaks, energy management strategy, performance, productivity, stress, fatigue, well-being