It’s not just long hours at work that sap us of our energy and health. Even several workplace habits that we have unconsciously accumulated without realising, impacts our health. Here’s a list of 10 mindless office habits that are actually unhealthy for you.
1. Skipping breakfast: While the science is somewhat debated, most experts agree it’s better to eat breakfast than to forego it entirely. It can be easy to breeze through your morning on only a cup of joe, but research suggests eating breakfast can help you kickstart your metabolism and help increase your energy so you’re not feeling sluggish later on.
2. Multitasking: Multitasking looks more impressive to others, but research shows that in reality, it doesn’t improve our productivity compared to somebody who is doing only a single task at a time. Instead it puts our brain under unnecessary stress required in juggling several tasks at a time. You will feel less tired at the end of the day if you plan your work day to do only a single task at a time.
3. Leaning your face on your hand: Sure, it’s comfortable, or perhaps you’re not even thinking about it, but touching can make the face more prone to breakouts or other conditions, because it spreads bacteria and other bugs.
4. Putting off lunch or drinking water until you finish a task at hand: Changing meal schedules will affect your digestive system and consequently your performance too. Water is something we all tend to forget to drink on a regular basis, thus dehydrating our body. Instead, plan your daily tasks to keep your lunch time constant as much as possible. Try using a water app to ensure adequate intake of water.
5. Eating a sad desk lunch: Your brain needs a break and sometimes your eyes do too (from the computer). Without one, your productivity and your energy levels plummet.
6. Touching your eye: It may be tempting to swipe off that smudged eyeliner in the middle of your day, but be wary of hand-to-eye contact as it’s another way to spread germs. Not only that, you may be damaging some very delicate skin.
7. Sitting all day: A sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk for diabetes and heart disease, and it’s probably hurting your back. Make it a point to get up and move as often as you can or opt for a standing desk if the opportunity exists.
8. Bringing your phone to the bathroom: It may be tempting to, er, multitask, but you’re really just inviting germs into your body and back to your desk. In fact, research shows that your phone has more bacteria than the toilet bowl itself. Just leave it behind.
9. Crossing your legs: You probably first started crossing your legs because you looked hot and feminine in that pose. But you may want to rethink doing the same while putting in long hours at work. Crossing your legs too much may cause back and neck pain and even might elevate your blood pressure. Ideal position is to place your feet flat on the floor, at 90 degrees angle.
10. Not unplugging after work: Burnout can sneak up on you real quick if you don’t pay attention to the little habits that get you there. Resist the impulse to check your mails before getting into bed or during weekend soirees, unless it is strictly urgent. It’s a small thing, but it contributes to your mental tension. Consciously keep away from your home once you get home.
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