Is it Acceptable to Take Long Lunch Breaks While Working Remotely?

"Debating if I'm wrong for taking long lunch breaks while working from home - coworker's perception vs. my productivity. AITA?"

Damjan

Published in Interesting
August 7, 2025

Is it Acceptable to Take Long Lunch Breaks While Working Remotely?

Working remotely has become the new norm for many, offering flexibility and the challenge of finding a work-life balance. One Reddit user, a 30-year-old professional, shared his dilemma about taking extended lunch breaks while telecommuting.

[ADVERTISEMENT]

In his case, he enjoys going for a bike ride to clear his mind and recharge during the workday, a practice that has helped him maintain productivity and well-being. However, a coworker named Donald has raised concerns about the extended lunch breaks, suggesting that it could reflect negatively on the user's commitment to work.

[ADVERTISEMENT]

Despite meeting deadlines and delivering quality work consistently, Donald perceives the extended breaks as a potential issue. The user finds himself torn between valuing Donald's opinion and sticking to a routine that works well for him.

The Reddit community weighed in with diverse opinions, with some supporting the user's approach, emphasizing the importance of mental health and work-life balance, while others questioned the impact of noticeable extended breaks on perception. The discussion touches upon themes of productivity, well-being, work habits, and interpersonal dynamics in a remote work environment.

Original Post

I (30M) have been working remotely since last year, like many others. One of the things that helps me stay productive and refreshed is going for a bike ride during my lunch break.

It's a great way to clear my mind, get some exercise, and come back to work feeling energized. Recently, my coworker Donald mentioned that it doesn't look good to be away for so long during lunchtime.

He feels that it reflects poorly on me, like I'm not taking my work seriously or not committed enough. However, I always make sure to meet deadlines, complete tasks efficiently, and never let my work suffer because of these breaks.

[ADVERTISEMENT]

I understand Donald's perspective to some extent, as perception does matter in a professional setting. But at the same time, I feel that as long as my work is of high quality and completed on time, what I do during my lunch break shouldn't be a big issue.

For background, Donald is known to be quite rigid in his work approach, always sticking strictly to the schedule and rarely deviating from the norm. On the other hand, I believe in a more balanced work-life approach, where short breaks can actually enhance productivity.

So, Reddit, considering that I meet all my deadlines and produce quality work, AITA for taking these extended lunch breaks, or is Donald just judging without understanding the full picture? I'm torn between valuing his opinion and staying true to what works best for me.

[ADVERTISEMENT]

So, AITA?