9. The Master Skill of Taking Breaks

<p>The thought of taking a break during a busy work day can sound impossible if not contrary to the ethos of our job. The reality, however, is that taking a break is not only possible, but will likely make you clinically sharper, more efficient, and possibly even happier. In this episode, Dr. Joshua Russell walks us through how to take a break within the constraints of our clinical responsibilities as well as pitfalls to avoid when taking a pause from patient care.</p> <p> </p> <p>We Discuss:</p> <ul> <li>The importance of breaks and how they can positively impact your affective state and ability to care for patients;</li> <li>The abundant evidence that says that breaks are helpful;</li> <li>How mental vigilance naturally wanes and decision fatigue sets in as the day progresses. Nobody functions with the same efficiency throughout an entire day; </li> <li>System 1 vs. system 2 thinking, and how when we’re in a negative affective state (ie. a “bad mood”), our ability to be deliberate in our decision-making is compromised;</li> <li>What a healthy break looks like;</li> <li>The notion that finding the time for a break takes intention; and</li> <li>More. </li> </ul> <p>For complete shownotes: <a href= "https://www.stimuluspodcast.com/post/why-and-how-to-take-breaks-you-can-probably-do-betterhttps://www.stimuluspodcast.com/post/the-master-skill-of-taking-breaks"> Click Here</a></p> <p>To learn more: <a href= "https://www.stimuluspodcast.com/">https://www.stimuluspodcast.com/</a></p> <p> </p>