Why napping at work makes sense

Want to be a more productive employee? It’s time for a nap. Of course, get it approved by your boss first; you don’t need to suddenly become unemployed after catching some shuteye. But Lifehacker writer Melanie Pinola in a recent feature story took a good look at the productivity benefits associated with work-time napping. You may be surprised at how a quick nap can boost your energy and brainpower.

A Short One

For instance, Pinola writes, a 10- to 20-minute nap part way through the day can make you feel energized and alert. And this, in turn, can make you a much more productive employee.

Not Short Enough, Not Long Enough

There are some naps that don't work though. Pinola writes that the 30-minute nap is not long enough nor short enough to be effective for workers. The reason? You might feel groggy for as long as 30 minutes after waking up.

Longer but Powerful

The ideal nap period might really be 60 minutes. Pinola said that a nap of this length could significantly boost your energy and brainpower. It might not be easy, though, to convince your boss that those 60 minutes put in with your eyes closed were in fact productive.