I googled “What is the most efficient amount of time to work before taking a break?”
I love google.
When I was a kid I used to ask my mom all sorts of obscure inquiries and she would say, “I don’t know …” and I would respond with, “they should have something where you can ask these kinds of questions and get good answers.” (Who was the “they” I was referring to? One really wonders.)
And now there is Google.
Anyway, my wonderful “they” today answered the question: 52 minutes is the optimal time to work. Then you’re supposed to take a 17 minute break that involves something totally different and then come back.
I tried it today.
I have to say, I had great focus and amazing stick-to-it-iveness.
Give it a try – even if you don’t use these exact numbers, the rule holds true; your brain will do much better with a bit of a mental shower. You’ll come away from your break with renewed energy and a bit of a refreshed perspective. : )