Feeling guilty about taking a lunch break when you have a list of projects longer than your arm? You are not alone.

We've grilled some of our most successful recruiters to get their trade secrets on how they spend their lunch break to maximise their success.

1. Get Moving

Spending 15 - 20 minutes raising your heart rate at lunch will help you burn off stressful energy that is holding you back. Exercise protects the neurons in your brain from the negative effects of stress and regulates the neurotransmitters in your brain to help wake you up and make you feel happy.

“I make time to go the gym every lunch break and throw myself into a quick 30 minute cycling class. I come back more determined than ever, my clarity of mind increases and I'm happier which makes my work mates and my clients happier. It's a win, win.”  - Jeff Bonnin, Associate Director.

2. Step Away From The Computer

Contrary to what you might think, taking regular periods away from work actually helps to increase productivity. Concentration is like a muscle that can be overworked and tires. You need to rest and take a break to be able to function fully.  Did you know that some of the most successful business people work for 52 minutes and then break for 17 minutes?

“Make time to get away from your desk, even if its just 5 minutes to grab a coffee. It won't make or break your day. Just be sure when you do get back to work, you focus and get the job done.” - Tony Henderson, General Manager.

3. Get In The Know

When you get a chance to take time off, use it wisely by reading about what's happening in your industry. Being armed with industry knowledge helps you make decisions quicker, gives you the power to become an expert in your industry helping to position you as a leader in your field and it will help you stay alert to any changes that you need to consider.

“Download the free app Feedly so you can stay up to date with ease, tailoring your news feed with what interests you. All the information I need in one spot, means I can access the latest information while I'm waiting for my meal to arrive.” -  Jen Smith - Senior Consultant Marketing & Sales.

4. Reorganise

Successful people know what's on the agenda for the day even before they go to bed the night before. But by lunch, things can change. More urgent projects come up and problems challenge your schedule.

“In your break, spend 5 minutes taking another look over your schedule for the day and work out what is still outstanding, and what is truly a priority and then allocate time to get it done. Time management is crucial to success.” - Roger Joseph, Practice Leader – Property & Construction.

5. Network

Use your lunch to build stronger relationships with colleagues, clients, people in your industry and your friendship group. Networking over lunch or coffee is the most productive way to build solid relationships that you can leverage when you need to.

“Relationships are a catalyst for success. We've all heard the saying 'It's not just what you know, but who you know' and this is key to being a success no matter what industry you're in. And don't make your catch ups all about business, build a relationship first.” - Viv Farrington, Senior Consultant Digital Team.

6. Eat To Nourish

Successful people who need their energy for long work days, eat to nourish rather than simply to refuel. Skip the sugar loaded quick fixes like chocolate and fast food that will spike your insulin and then drop it just as rapidly leaving you falling asleep on your keyboard.

“Bypass the hard to digest carb meals that only drain the body of energy and go straight for maximum energy, with clean protein, lots of veggies and good quality fats.  Swap that pasta meal and Kit Kat and opt for a steak and clean salad without dressing.” - Carl Di Nuzzo, Consultant Digital Marketing & Creative Team.

7. Gratitude

Negative thoughts and emotions drain your energy stores quicker than a speeding bullet. Not only will it drain you and bring your immune system down, making you more inclined to get sick, but it will drain and distract those around you.

“Instead of noticing how much work you have on, how cold it is inside, how terrible the weather is and how loud your colleague is, focus on the positive things you do like. It might be raining, but doesn't the rain smell beautiful?' - Chloe Shale, Senior Consultant - Healthcare & Medical.