Maybe you’re not like the rest of them. It might be that you take your full lunch break and step away from your work space, but from my experiences I have noticed too many of us working through our lunch. From doing sales at an insurance company to switching gears as a production intern, I’ve always prioritized the act of breaking from my desk and enjoying my lunch. You might feel like a hero by sticking to your work and getting things out of the way, but skimping out on lunch is more harmful than you think. Stop worrying about getting things out of the way and focus more on getting things done. Here are a few things you can do during your break to recharge yourself while also being productive.

Take yourself for a walk.

I’m located in the North and even though we’re in the pit of winter, there’s no reason for me to stay cooped up all day long. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and go for a quick walk. This is especially crucial if you spend most of the day in a seated position. Not only does this get you moving, but you can also catch up with a loved one over the phone.

Catch up on some emails.

The whole point of a lunch break is to relax, but that doesn't mean you have to spend it all on a walk and go full on spa mode. Stay mindful of the advantage you have from being away from "work" to take care of your own work. Maybe you have a side project you're working on. Get through some of your emails and chase those dreams.

Draft your Odyssey article.

When it’s hard to find time, make it instead! As a student who works and interns during the week, I draft my articles during lunch. This saves me time and gives me a fresh space to brainstorm.

Run errands now, relax later.

Tackle any of your "to-do list" items while you can. Making a quick run at the grocery store or stopping at the bank takes away the post-work stress we all hate. You'll also reap the benefits of beating the crowds since most people wait until after work to take care of most things. Lighten your load now, and you'll have less things to worry about as you get home to prepare dinner, relax, and plan ahead.

These are just a couple of suggestions for a more productive lunch break, but it takes more than sitting here and reading my ideas. It’s about believing and accepting the fact that you are not above taking a lunch break. None of us are. As Americans, we have developed a sick mentality that has grown and accumulated into glamorizing a busy life. We are not too busy, if there’s one thing we are, it’s free. Take control of your time and you'll notice how much of it is meant to be yours.