This text is based on an article on the Harvard Business Review website.
Better concentration and lower error rates
The ideal worker can organise their work well so that, if possible, they focus primarily on one task at a time. When dealing with their task, such a worker should get into a state of "deep work". The problem, however, is that it is impossible to stay in such a state for too long a period of time in one go. The brain needs an occasional rest to be able to concentrate fully again. So if you forbid subordinates to take breaks from time to time, you would force them to work inefficiently and after a while be unable to concentrate properly on what they are doing.
Mental health and reduced risk of burnout
A worker who does not take breaks and always operates at full speed, so to speak, is at higher risk of burnout. Therefore, even from a purely economic point of view, it is disadvantageous to force employees to work constantly, without occasional breaks or friendly chats with colleagues. If you have team full of workaholics, sooner or later they might burn out and then you would have to look for replacements.
Socialisation and communication within the team
Taking occasional breaks, chatting by the coffee machine, watching a new viral video together, or talking about how everyone had a great holiday are not just pointless activities that kill time: they are also an important part of socialising within the team. Employees who talk to one another informally are then often able to communicate better and more effectively amongst themselves regarding their work agenda.
Improving the reputation of the team and the overall employer brand
Last but not least, it is important to realise that as a manager you do not want to be perceived as a bully or despot who stands behind subordinates' backs, constantly watching them to ensure they do not happen to slack even for five minutes. By taking a healthy approach to these issues, you will improve the perceptions of your team and the employer brand as a whole.
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