10 Things to Do on Your Lunch Break to Actually Enjoy Your Work Day

Let’s be real: most of us spend our lunch breaks either doom-scrolling TikTok, eating sad desk salads, or catching up on emails we’re pretending to ignore. But babe, your lunch break is sacred. It’s your tiny slice of freedom in the corporate chaos—and it deserves more than reheated leftovers and Slack notifications.

Here are 10 things you can do on your lunch break that’ll boost your mood, reset your brain, and help you reclaim your peace (and maybe even your sanity).

1. Go for a Walk Like You’re in a Rom-Com

Get outside and touch some grass. Literally. Even 10–15 minutes of fresh air and movement can lift your mood, reduce stress, and shake off the morning blahs. Bonus points if you put in your earbuds and walk like you’re the misunderstood main character.

Pro tip: Save your juiciest playlist or podcast for these walks so you actually look forward to taking them.

2. Romanticize the Hell Out of Your Lunch

You deserve a moment. Plate your food, light a mini candle (if you’re not in an open office), put your phone down, and eat like you’re on a solo date.

Try this: Listen to calming music, sit by a window, and savor each bite like you’re the star of your own food vlog.

3. Do a 10-Minute Stretch or Yoga Flow

Your body wasn’t built to sit like a pretzel for eight hours. A quick stretch or yoga flow can help you release tension, boost circulation, and prevent that end-of-day slouch monster.

YouTube search: “10-minute desk yoga” – thank me later.

4. Journal It Out

Feeling overwhelmed? Anxious? Annoyed by Cheryl in accounting? Grab a journal and get it out. Writing even a few lines can help you clear your head, regulate your emotions, and set intentions for the rest of your day.

Bonus: Write three things you’re grateful for to reframe your mood.

5. Meditate or Breathe Like a Zen Master

Even five minutes of intentional breathing can change your whole vibe. Apps like Insight Timer, Headspace, or YouTube have short meditations perfect for work breaks.

Tip: Close your office door, put in your earbuds, and pretend you’re in Bali.

6. Call or Text Someone You Actually Like

Use your break to connect with someone who lifts your spirits. Send a “thinking of you” text or hop on a quick call with your bestie. Human connection hits different in the middle of a workday spiral.

Note: Avoid anyone who drains your energy. This break is about you.

7. Read Something That Has Nothing to Do with Work

Crack open that book you’ve been meaning to finish or scroll through an article about astrology, skincare, or literally anything not related to work.

Need a rec? Try a fun newsletter or short story. Fiction > spreadsheets.

8. Run a Small Errand Just to Feel Accomplished

Checking off something from your personal to-do list can give you a quick hit of dopamine and help you feel productive in your real life.

Examples: Return that package, drop off dry cleaning, order groceries—little wins count.

9. Listen to a Motivational Podcast (Without the Hustle Overload)

Some podcasts feel like a bestie hyping you up. Find one that feeds your soul, makes you laugh, or gives you a new perspective. Avoid anything that screams “grind harder”—we’re on break, not a bootcamp.

Vibe check: Try self-love, mental health, or finance girlie content.

10. Plan Something You’re Excited About

A trip, a weekend brunch, a new hair color, your villain era—whatever. Use your break to browse ideas, Pinterest inspo, or make that reservation. Having something to look forward to can seriously boost your workday mood.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Breaks Count

You don’t owe your job every second of your day. Take your lunch break back, protect your peace, and use that time to recharge in ways that actually serve you.

So tell me, what’s your favorite way to escape the workday madness? Let’s share ideas in the comments 💅🏼✨