You know that feeling when your brain just refuses to cooperate? You’ve been staring at your screen for ages, trying to squeeze out one more email, one more spreadsheet, one more whatever – but nothing’s clicking.
That’s when the temptation kicks in. A quick scroll through your phone, maybe a round of Aviator just to reset. And then, guilt. Should you really be playing games at work?
Surprisingly, yes. Short breaks, especially ones that fully pull your brain away from work, can actually make you more productive.
The Science of Taking Breaks
Ever heard of the Ultradian Rhythm? It’s the natural cycle our brains follow, shifting between high focus and low energy every 90 minutes. Research shows that forcing yourself to power through fatigue leads to burnout and lower efficiency.
A study from the University of Illinois found that workers who took short, planned breaks maintained better focus compared to those who worked non-stop. Their brains didn’t just “switch off” – the break reset their attention span so they could dive back into tasks with fresh energy.
Why Games Are the Best Type of Break
Not all breaks are created equal. Scrolling through social media? That’s just dumping more information into your brain. But playing a quick game? That’s active rest.
Games:
- Engage your brain in a new way – Unlike mindlessly browsing, playing a game forces you to think differently.
- Reduce stress and frustration – A quick win (or even a loss) in a game can reset your mood and ease workplace tension.
- Boost problem-solving skills – Many games, even simple ones, sharpen cognitive flexibility, making it easier to tackle complex tasks.
Even major companies have caught on. Google, Facebook, and Microsoft have gaming zones in their offices because they know happy, relaxed employees work better.
The Right Kind of Games for Work Breaks
Now, before you start a five-hour gaming marathon at your desk, let’s be clear – balance is key. The best office-friendly games are:
- Short and engaging – Something you can play in under 5 minutes
- Low effort, high reward – No steep learning curve, just quick fun.
- Not too addictive – You want a break, not a new obsession.
Games like Aviator fit the bill perfectly. A quick round gives you the thrill of chance without requiring deep concentration, making it an ideal way to refresh your mind without getting sucked into a time warp.
Play Smart, Work Smarter
Taking breaks isn’t slacking – it’s working smarter. A few minutes of gaming can reset your brain, ease stress, and help you return to work sharper than before.
So, next time someone gives you the side-eye for playing a game at work, hit them with the science. And then maybe challenge them to a quick round.