Sometimes we get so busy that we forget how important it is to take time out during the day. I was certainly guilty of this from time to time, and there were days when I even forgot to stop for lunch!

I guess this is a reflection of how much I like what I do, but working through the day without taking a proper break is not sustainable, and sooner or later it catches up with you in the form of fatigue. Cleaning and gardening can be very physical work, and if you try to keep working when you are suffering from fatigue you greatly increase the chance of injuring yourself. So with this in mind, I made a conscious decision earlier this year to always take time out during the day to eat properly and also to sit down and relax.

I’m lucky in the respect that I work in some of the nicest places in Brisbane, and can take my break in New Farm Park one day and by the beach in Redcliffe on another (see picture). I now think of my breaks as mini-weekends, and work never feels too tough when I know that I’ve got a nice spot to kick back and eat lunch.

No matter where you work, I’d encourage everyone to take the time to get outside, eat well and have a proper break each day. You may be surprised to find that this simple change will leave you with a lot more energy at the end of the day!