I'm addressing a topic that might raise a few eyebrows: napping at work. Now, before you dismiss the idea, let's explore why this could be more than just catching a few z's during work hours.

Is Napping at Work Really a Good Idea?

Many might question my credibility for even suggesting napping as a work activity. But, let's remember that some of history's greatest minds – Edison, Einstein, Churchill, and yes, yours truly – have been proponents of napping. Their accomplishments speak volumes about the potential benefits of this practice.

The Benefits of Napping

  1. Boosting Productivity: Sometimes, a quick nap can be just what you need to overcome a challenging task. It's about giving your brain a brief rest, allowing for fresh ideas and insights to emerge.
  2. Enhancing Clarity and Focus: Ever noticed how a lack of sleep impacts your ability to concentrate? A short nap can do wonders for your mental sharpness, crucial for both safety and efficiency at work.
  3. Gaining Insights: Napping can be a moment of tranquility that leads to breakthrough ideas. It's about stepping back momentarily to see things from a fresh perspective.
  4. Improving Health: With so many adults struggling to get enough sleep, a nap can be a small step towards better overall health.

How to Nap Effectively at Work

  • Duration: I recommend a nap lasting between 7 to 30 minutes. It's short enough to prevent you from entering deep sleep, but long enough to refresh you.
  • Location: This will vary based on your work environment. If you're at home, a comfortable chair might be your best bet. In an office, it's a bit more complicated, and you might need to consider the cultural context.

Whether napping at work is feasible depends on the culture of your organization. It requires a balance of understanding the norms and recognizing the benefits it can offer.

Remember, napping isn't about being lazy at work. It's a strategic tool for improving how you work. If you're a leader of leaders or someone interested in enhancing organizational results, consider exploring these unconventional yet effective strategies.

Follow The Remarkable Leadership Podcast

In This Episode...

Want more articles like this?

Subscribe to any of our e-newsletters to get them delivered directly to your inbox.

Kevin Eikenberry is a recognized world expert on leadership development and learning and is the Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group (http://KevinEikenberry.com). He has spent nearly 30 years helping organizations across North America, and leaders from around the world, on leadership, learning, teams and teamwork, communication and more.
Twice he has been named by Inc.com as one of the top 100 Leadership and Management Experts in the World and has been included in many other similar lists.

Share your thoughts

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}