I’ve tried taking my lunch to work and eating at my desk. It just doesn’t work. I always assumed it was because I like to get out of the building, take a break, or just hang out with my friends.

I also consider myself a foodie, so maybe that has something to do with it.

But lately, I’ve begun to realize that it’s much more than that. I look forward to lunch. When I come in to work, I immediately start thinking about where I’m going to eat, and with whom. Wow – that sounds lazy. OK, not at the forefront of my mind, but somewhere in there.

Here’s why I think it’s important to take the time to get out and have lunch, aside from it being PDT (pretty damn tasty.)

1. It’s the only real time you can spend with your coworkers/team and get to know the “real” them.  Most of the day is occupied with tasks and feedback. This is the only time you really have to get beyond that. Forget about tasks, and find out what really makes your team click.

2. There is nothing distracting you. There is no computer, no email (unless you check on your phone incessantly like me), no “boss” – well, more on that later, no to-do list. You can get away from all those things that really take you away from big thinking, and really, well … think big.  When else in the day do you really have the chance to do that?

3. Become the anti-boss. If you lead a team, this is your chance to become the anti-boss. Let them see you are a normal person, just like them, who also really likes Family Guy and fried chicken. Team members are far more willing to open up to you if they see you as an equal, and less a threat.

4. You need the rest. Nobody likes a worhaholic. Get out and enjoy life. Give your body and brain a rest. Need two hours? Take two hours! Especially if you are in the creative field, like myself. You have to recharge all the time, or you will become a bitter desk-jockey who can’t come up with anything new.

There ya go – why lunch is important. Now I’m hungry. Where am I going to go …….