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Study: As workload increases, so does the need for breaks, and employees are aware of it

79 percent of knowledge workers wish their employer would encourage more frequent breaks. Breaks are especially hoped to be part of shared meetings.

The need for breaks is not going away. On the contrary, employees are becoming increasingly aware of how essential they are. A survey conducted by Cuckoo in summer 2025 confirms what many are experiencing more and more often: the pace of working life is accelerating, and at the same time, breaks are increasingly skipped. The previous survey was carried out in 2023.

Work pace is accelerating, breaks are forgotten

A total of 746 knowledge workers from companies of different sizes responded to the survey. Nearly half of them said that the pace of work had increased over the past six months.

This clearly affects employee wellbeing, as 82 percent reported feeling at least somewhat overwhelmed. The biggest sources of strain were workload, excessive interruptions, and a lack of breaks during the workday.

Although busyness and interruptions cannot always be avoided, they can be balanced with regular breaks. The survey showed that employees are very aware of the benefits of taking breaks, as nearly all respondents considered them important.

However, increased workload makes it harder to take breaks. In the 2023 survey, about 24 percent said they skipped breaks due to being busy. This year, that number had risen to 50 percent. There simply is not enough time in the day for breaks, even though they are clearly needed.

The second most common reason for skipping breaks was forgetfulness. When work takes over, it is easy to forget to pause — especially when no one reminds you.

Employees want a more supportive attitude towards taking breaks from employers

One of the clearest findings of the survey was a message directed at employers. As many as 79 percent of respondents wished that the workplace would encourage more frequent breaks.

And permission alone is not enough. What is needed is a cultural shift. This year, 86 percent of respondents said they would like to see a more positive and supportive approach to breaks, compared to just 40 percent in 2023.

“Employees would be willing to take more breaks, but they are looking for more support from their employer. They understand the benefits of taking breaks but expect the workplace to make space for it and create cultural acceptance,” says Amel Gaily, CEO of Cuckoo.

Additionally, 56 percent hoped for shared break moments in meetings, both in-person and remote. This shows that individual break habits also need a collective rhythm and shared acceptance.

“The message is clear. Wellbeing and the pressure of constant busyness can only be improved through joint efforts from both employees and employers,” Gaily concludes.

Real change requires joint action

The results reflect a reality many are familiar with. The workday goes by in a blur, and there is no time for breaks — even though they are needed the most. Individual motivation is not always enough if the workplace does not recognise the benefits of breaks for wellbeing and performance. That is why it is so important to create a more break-friendly culture together.

The survey was conducted as an open online questionnaire from 2 to 15 June 2025. Responses were collected anonymously from 746 knowledge workers across various fields. The survey was shared through Cuckoo’s digital channels, mailing lists, and other marketing platforms.

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