One of the misunderstandings about getting things done is that the person who works the hardest and longest is the most productive.  In fact, the opposite is more likely the case.  GTD author David Allen has confessed on numerous occasions to being “probably the laziest guy you’ve ever met.”  In fact, if you want to get more done, the science advises to take more breaks.

In his recent book, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing, author Daniel Pink discusses why breaks help make people more productive.  He outlines five different types of breaks to take throughout the day to recharge your battery and refocus on the task at hand.  The types of breaks are:

• Micro Breaks (One Minute or Less)
• Moving Breaks (Standing Up and Walking Around)
• Nature Breaks (Going Outside for Fresh Air)
• Social Breaks (Chat with a Friend)
• Mental Gear Shifting Breaks (Meditation or Deep Breathing)

Pink’s book offers other great insights, including when to change your job, when to schedule meetings, and the importance of beginnings, middles, and ends.  So the time is now to pick up a copy from your local library.