Have you ever wondered if your car is smarter than you?
I had that feeling yesterday when I was on a work trip with a rental car. I heard a pleasant "ding", and then noticed this graphic come up on the dashboard: "Consider taking a break"
I had been driving just over an hour, and I'm not sure what my car sensed about me, but the message was clear. . . you may need to pull over, take a walk, grab a coffee, give yourself a rest.
The "take a break" screen lasted about 7 seconds, then went away. . .but it came back several more times on the remainder of the 2 hour drive. I didn't actually stop (I was feeling fine, really!)
But it got me thinking about how I view "breaks". Are they healthy or needed, or do I dismiss breaks as unnecessary and even lazy? Am I trying to prove something to someone by my unwavering efforts? Or do I realize that my efforts are more effective when I allow myself to be human, to pause every now and then, to rest and reset?
When I reflect back as a younger leader, my perspective was more so that needing breaks was a sign of weakness. I cringe even writing that. Now I see them as a sign of strength and health.
So the next time your car, or your co-worker, or partner, or friend, asks if you need a break, take them up on the offer. Say yes. Be human. And I believe you will find your enjoyment and impact once you come back to the task or responsibility will increase.
Excuse me while I go grab a coffee.