8 ways to make the most of your lunch break

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Even though I don’t go hiking through waterfalls and traveling the world on a daily basis, I think my life is pretty interesting. I just adopted two kittens (and made them an Instagram), I intern in NYC five days a week and I’m only 21. There’s a lot going on. But, from 9:00 – 5:30 on weekdays, the level of interesting takes a dip.

Work is, well, work. But I don’t want to let it get me down or feel like it has to be a boring part of my day. So, I’ve decided to start using my half hour  – one hour lunch breaks to keep things interesting. Here’s how you can, too.

1. Make a bucket list of places nearby you’d like to explore.

No need to waste time researching. Some main categories I like to look for gardens and parks where I can enjoy lunch I brought from home, food places where I can buy lunch or just miscellaneous things like farmer’s markets, shopping areas or wall art.

I bring my lunch from home often — vitaminwater zero squeezed lemonade  or xxx açai- blueberry-pomegranate and salami on a multigrain roll  — so I like to enjoy it somewhere pretty and peaceful whenever the weather is worth relaxing in. The vitaminwater helps me stay hydrated and get some extra electrolytes, which is especially crucial in the NYC summer heat and the sandwich is nice and portable for eating on-the-go. I usually buy a bunch at Target at the beginning of the week so I’m stocked up!

2. Map things out before you leave.

I try to do this the night before or in the morning during my commute. I don’t like to waste time getting lost! I usually take a screenshot of the Google Map directions or write them in a note on my phone to avoid using data while I’m out and about.

3. Don’t worry about making everything an adventure.

Sometimes I just like to eat my sandwich, drink my vitaminwater and read a book in a nearby park or pretty sitting area. Sometimes an adventure is just a matter of taking a walk. In some cases, I’ll use my break to go for a walk and then enjoy my lunch later while I’m working.

Plus, you never know what you’ll accidentally come across. Just the other day I was walking and came across a food market.

4. Order your lunch ahead for pick up.

This will save you so much time. If you plan on grabbing a meal while you’re out, check if the restaurant has apps or order for pickup options. Waiting in line to order lunch can literally take your entire lunch break. Plus, if you bring some elements from home like a drink or snack, it can save you time and money.

5. Bring a buddy.

Don’t be afraid to bring someone from work to tag along. It can be a nice way to make friends. If your friend or S.O. works somewhat nearby, you can meet somewhere in the middle and make the most of your lunch break by spending some time catching up with friends.

Even if they’re not nearby, bring a buddy via FaceTime or phone call. If you both take lunch at the same time, you can use this time to go on a walk while you chat on the phone catching up.

6. Try to avoid eating lunch at your desk.

Sometimes you’re so busy that you have to. I get it. But, most of the time you can spare half an hour. If it’s a popular thing to do in your office and you don’t want to seem like a ‘slacker’ or an outcast, try inviting co-workers to bring their lunches outside with you to enjoy in the nice weather.

7. Crappy weather? No problem.

If you don’t feel like heading outside, make a point to enjoy a book or eat with a friend somewhere else in your building. But, if you just feel like being alone, there’s no shame in enjoying your lunch at your desk. Here are some of my favorite things to do during my lunch break at my desk:

– Take personality quizzes. I’ve always been into Meyers-Briggs and The Enneagram.

– Watch YouTube videos. Lately, Jenna Marbles, PiinkSparkles, Shane Dawson and pixielocks have been some of my favorite channels.

– Work on your side hustle. Sometimes during my lunch break I’ll work on blog posts or editing sponsored Instagrams. It’s a nice way to truly make the most of your time.

– Reserve library books. Once again, this helps me feel productive and since I read so often, it’s important that I reserve new library books every other week or so.

– Enter contestants and sweepstakes. I just entered the  “Label Me A Winner” vitaminwater promotion where you get the chance to create your own vitaminwater label. I made one with my tattoo’s writing on it. You choose whichever flavor you want and then share it to Twitter or Instagram for a chance to win!

8. Create an adventure budget.

While you don’t want to blow an entire day’s paycheck during your lunch break every day, budgeting a little bit of cash to buy a special dessert or pay an entry fee to a small museum can be nice.

If you want to spend your budget elsewhere, going to Target is always a fun adventure. You can find vitaminwater at your local Target!

How do you like to spend your lunch break?