Why I Don’t Ask, “How was your break?”
🛑 Stop asking, "How was your break?"
...in the same way you ask, "How are you?"
...as an automatic reflex, expecting a positive response, and not intending to pause for thoughtful engagement.
If we presume that not everyone has the same experiences during breaks, let's diversify how we greet people and check in upon returning from break.
For colleagues I regularly engaged with, I asked how their break was and spent time listening, without assumption, to their joys, pains, and reflections. I also recognized that not every colleague enjoyed the same length or type of break/vacation I had as a teacher and administrator.
I began using different types of check-in questions during professional development sessions to honor the variety of experiences present among all employees. And I always give people the option to come up with their own.
If you're leading a meeting, consider using a choice board of questions that provide people with options to respond to beyond, "How was your break?"
You can find this choice board, and two others, in my shop.
Free resources to help you…
↗️ Elevate your check-ins.
🫴🏾 Provide options.
🚫 Avoid assumptions.
Ok, back to my maternity leave 😁.
Take care, stay well, and make space for things that bring you joy and peace.
