b'BRAIN BREAKS Digital overload has become an urgent issue in the new era of remote and hybrid work.The Microsoft Work Lab shares the three main takeaways from its research: 1. Breaks between meetings allow the brain to reset. When participants have a chance to rest, they can start their next meeting in a more relaxed state.2. Backtoback meetings can decrease engagement. When the brain experiences stress, its harder to stay focused and engaged. With breaks, people have higher engagement and an improved ability to do their best work. 3. Transitioning between meetings can lead to high stress. The transition period between backtoback meetings causes stress levels to spike. With breaks between meetings, the start of the next meeting is gentler and smoother. To get the most from moments of respite, try these tips:Shift your mindset instead of powering through the work day.Find break activities that calm you. Consider other modes of communication to replace a meeting when appropriate. Make meetings more intentional: Send an agenda ahead of time, be thoughtful about who to invite, and start and stop on time.JULY/AUGUST 2021 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG 53'