The website www.banknoise.com cited an Italian minister as stating productivity increases during lunch break time and workers should avoid a lunch break or at least decrease time at lunch.

While the minister stated it was his opinion, it is clear he has no idea what he is talking about.  If all the Italian workers actually did what he suggested, there would most likely be a decrease in productivity.

Often their reason for the productivity increase during lunch is because there are less people to call or drop by and to talk with you.  If more people took shorter lunches it would increase the amount of calls and people stopping by resulting in less productivity.

Another factor that appears to have been overlooked by the Italian minister is that not everyone goes to launch at the same time.  Many people work extra hard to finish the task they are working on so they can enjoy their lunch without the stress of having to complete the task when they get back to their desk.

I think it’s funny when I hear or read stories such as this.  Sometimes common sense eludes even those who have reached the status of minister.  This is also a good example of needing to always think before you speak.

What do you think?  Am I off base or do you agree?  Let me know in the comments below.