Whether they realise it or not, bosses set the rhythm of the workplace. When leaders are constantly online, skipping vacations, and sending emails at odd hours, it can create this quiet pressure for everyone else to follow suit. The unspoken message? If you’re not always on, you’re falling behind.
But the best leaders flip that script. They show that it’s okay to slow down sometimes. That it’s not only allowed—it’s encouraged. When a manager says, “I’m taking a few days off,” or logs off at 5 p.m. without apology, it tells the team, “You can take care of yourself too.”
Breaks Actually Make Us Better
We’ve all had those moments where we’re staring at a screen, trying to push through, but nothing’s clicking. That’s your brain waving a white flag. Science backs this up—short breaks during the day and regular time off improve focus, problem-solving, and overall well-being.
So when a boss takes a break, they’re not slacking. They’re recharging. And they’re showing everyone else how to stay sharp and avoid burnout.
How Leaders Can Set the Right Example
It doesn’t take grand gestures to build a break-positive culture. A few small moves can make a big difference:
- Take your vacation—and talk about it. Don’t just disappear. Let your team know you’re taking time off and why it’s important.
- Respect boundaries. Try not to send messages after hours. If it’s urgent, make that clear. If not, it can wait until morning.
- Pause during the day. Encourage quick coffee breaks, walks, or just stepping away from the screen. It adds up.
- Check in on work-life balance. Ask your team how they’re doing—not just with work, but with rest too.
Great leaders don’t just push for productivity—they model balance. They understand that a well-rested team is a high-performing one. And by taking breaks themselves, they create a culture where people feel safe to rest, reset, and come back even stronger.
So if you’re in a leadership role, here’s your reminder: take that time off. Close the laptop. Step away for a bit. Not just because you’ve earned it—but because it’s one of the best things you can do for your team.
