Lunchtime Legends: The Ins and Outs of Workday Breaks

How important is a lunch break for avoiding productivity-sapping fatigue levels in the afternoon? Research shows that those who doze or just sit quietly tend to be better off than individuals who spend their lunchtime in the company of colleagues. And what of those who sit it out altogether, instead using their lunch "break" to get on top of work while they grab a quick bite at their desks? According to management researcher John Trougakos, their fate depends largely on whether they work through lunch under duress or by choice. He argues that the longest and most important break in the working day needs greater understanding.