The next time your boss catches you snoozing under your desk, show them this.

New research from the University of Michigan finds that taking a nap might may be “an effective strategy to counteract impulsive behavior and to boost tolerance for frustration.” These positive associations can, of course, spill out into all sort of other things like decision making, attention to detail, and task completion, meaning that napping can make you better at your job.

Since many of us don’t get the recommended 6-8 hours of sleep per night, we’re often tired, cranky, and run down. And not sleeping through an entire night can negatively impact a person’s attention span and memory, as well as contribute to fatigue, says a news release.

In a study designed to examine how a brief nap affected adults’ emotional control, 40 participants, completed tasks on computers and answered questions about sleepiness, mood and impulsivity.

“They were randomly assigned to a 60-minute nap opportunity or no-nap period that involved watching a nature video. Research assistants monitored the participants, who later completed those questionnaires and tasks again.

“Those who napped spent more time trying to solve a task than the non-nappers who were less willing to endure frustration in order to complete it. In addition, nappers reported feeling less impulsive.”

The study results, combined with previous research, indicate that staying awake for an extended period of time impairs control of negative emotional responses, said lead author Jennifer Goldschmied.

“Our results suggest that napping may be a beneficial intervention for individuals who may be required to remain awake for long periods of time by enhancing the ability to persevere through difficult or frustrating tasks,” said Goldschmied.

The researchers also said that napping may also benefit workplace safety and productivity.

Grab a pillow and crash. If anyone gives you grief just tell them the benefits will be long term. You promise.

See also:
How to be less tired all the time
How much sleep do you actually need?
How to sleep better at night

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