Why you should let staff snooze during work

Want to prevent your staff from getting easily frustrated or acting impulsively? Let them take a nap at work.

A new study from the University of Michigan found that impulsive behaviour can be counteracted and tolerance for frustration can be boosted simply by snoozing in between office hours.

In fact, the study's researchers have said that napping "can be a cost-efficient and easy strategy to increase workplace safety".

In other words, if offered extended break times or provided with nap pods in the workplace, employees may become more productive.

The researchers examined 40 participants aged 18-50 who maintained a consistent sleep schedule for three nights before the test, and had them complete tasks on computers as well as answer questions about sleepiness, mood and impulsivity.

Participants were then randomly assigned to a 60-minute nap opportunity or no-nap period involving watching a nature video. After which, they were asked to complete the tasks and questionnaires again.

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They found that those who napped were more willing to endure the frustration in order to complete the tasks than the non-nappers.

Additionally, nappers reported feeling less impulsive than the non-nappers.

The study's lead author Jennifer Goldschmied said "results from this latest study indicate that staying awake for an extended period of time hinders people from controlling negative emotional responses."

"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," she added.

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