EP103: 5 Signs You Need A Work Break

In today's episode, I explore something that affects so many of us but rarely gets the attention it deserves - knowing when it's time to take a break from work. While our always-on culture makes stepping away feel impossible, I'll share why taking a strategic break might be the most productive move for your long-term career success. I guide you through five clear signs that indicate you need a work break - not just a vacation where you're checking email poolside, but a true, intentional step back to recharge and reset. I also provide actionable insights on what to do if you recognize these signs in yourself. In this episode, you'll discover: Why needing a break isn't a sign of weakness or failure, but often a sign of self-awareness and leadership How physical symptoms like insomnia, frequent headaches, constant fatigue, digestive issues, and getting sick more often can be your body's way of saying "enough" What emotional exhaustion looks like - feeling empty, cynical, or detached - and why you can't think your way out of it The irony of declining performance despite longer hours and what neuroscience tells us about why our brains require periods of rest How disconnection from purpose and meaning in your work can signal burnout rather than a true misalignment Why an inability to unplug - checking email during dinner, thinking about work in the shower, feeling anxious when trying to relax - indicates work has expanded beyond healthy boundaries You'll also hear personal reflections about my own experiences with recognizing when it's time to pause in order to move forward stronger. This episode empowers you to: Recognize the warning signs before they lead to more serious consequences Understand why your body and mind need genuine rest to function optimally Take a strategic break without derailing your career trajectory Remember that you are not your job - you're a whole person whose identity extends beyond your professional role TIMELINE 00:00 The Importance of Taking a Work Break 02:20 Recognizing Physical Symptoms of Burnout 05:09 Understanding Emotional Exhaustion 07:57 Declining Performance and Overworking 10:00 Disconnection from Purpose and Meaning 11:49 Inability to Unplug and Enjoy Time Off 13:43 Strategies for Taking a Work Break At the end of the episode, I introduce my comprehensive guide, "Taking a Work Break Without the Panic," which provides everything from understanding your legal rights and benefits to creating a communication strategy to planning your return to work after a break. Stay In Touch → Connect with our leadership community: Follow Your Next Move Podcast on Instagram/TikTok: @YourNextMovePodcast Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com → Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove → Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching → Get your guide: Visit kimberlybonline.com/workbreak and use code YourNextMove to get 50% off my comprehensive guide "Taking a Work Break Without the Panic" or click the link in the show notes.