The Importance of Awareness and Adjustments

May 19, 2025

By: Liz Cabrera

This morning, I was reminded of how easily our work routines can clash with our natural human rhythms, potentially leading to increased stress and decreased well-being.

My attempt to follow a typical weekday morning schedule, balancing family, household chores, and the pressure of arriving at the office on time, left me feeling hurried and unprepared even before my workday began. This experience prompted me to consider the wider implications of such demanding structures.

Later, during a quiet moment, I noticed my natural inclination for a mid-morning snack, a pattern that brought back positive memories from previous roles. In my early career at an international call center and later as a Visual Merchandiser, a mid-morning break was a normal and even encouraged part of the day. These breaks offered not only physical nourishment but also opportunities for connection and a welcome pause from focused work.

These reflections highlight a key point: our current professional systems might unintentionally create tension by overlooking the importance of aligning with our inherent biological and social needs. When we are constantly trying to fit into rigid schedules that don’t accommodate natural energy fluctuations and the need for regular breaks, it can lead to lower productivity, higher stress levels, and a diminished sense of personal well-being.

My experience reflects a broader need for professionals in all fields to think about:

*   **The impact of demanding schedules:** Are our current work structures truly maximizing productivity, or are they contributing to burnout and a feeling of constantly being behind?

*   **The value of natural breaks:** Could incorporating more flexible or standardized break times throughout the day lead to improved focus and overall well-being?

*   **The importance of self-awareness:** Are we in tune with our own natural rhythms and advocating for systems that better support these needs?

Ultimately, recognizing when our systems feel “out of sync” and actively seeking adjustments is essential. This requires both individual awareness and a willingness within professional environments to explore more human-centered approaches to work. By developing a greater understanding of our natural rhythms and their impact on our professional lives, we can collectively strive to create systems that improve both well-being and productivity.

I would appreciate hearing your thoughts and experiences on this important matter.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Cabrera