Power NAP in the office

A power nap of just 10 to 20 minutes can work wonders – especially in the hectic workday. More and more companies are discovering short naps as an effective method to boost their employees' performance, concentration, and well-being. Learn how power napping works in the office, why it's worthwhile, and how it can be easily integrated into everyday life here.

Table of contents

1. Lack of sleep in everyday working life
2. Power napping at work: What’s behind it?
3. Productivity & Profitability
4. How companies establish a power nap culture
5. Practical examples

6. Conclusion

1. Lack of sleep in everyday working life

One in two working people in Germany doesn't get enough sleep – with noticeable consequences for concentration, performance, and motivation. Fatigue at work not only costs nerves, but also money. Studies show that sleep deprivation is associated with an increase in errors, sickness-related absences, and psychological stress.

The fact that lack of sleep impairs our cognitive performance is particularly evident in jobs with high levels of responsibility. Learn more about the connection between sleep and mental performance in this article. “How sleep improves athletic performance”.

2. Power napping at work: What’s behind it?

A power nap of 10–20 minutes in the early afternoon can demonstrably increase concentration, decisiveness, and energy. This is not about laziness, but about strategic regeneration – a concept that has long been established in high-performance areas such as sports or creative professions.

You can read how exactly power napping works and what to consider regarding technique, duration and environment in the magazine article “How power napping works”.

3. Productivity & Profitability

Numerous studies—including one by NASA—show that a 20-minute nap can increase concentration by up to 34%. At the same time, error rates decrease significantly, mood improves, and stress levels are demonstrably reduced.

Creativity can also benefit from targeted recovery phases – as you can read in the article “Does sleep improve creativity?” you can read.

A power nap is not only a benefit for the individual, but also an economic advantage for companies.

4. How companies establish a power nap culture

Successful implementation in a company requires more than just a break room. A quiet sleeping environment, a clear communication culture, and a fundamental awareness of the importance of relaxation in the daily work routine are essential.

A pleasant environment that offers peace, comfort and protection from external stimuli helps you to relax quickly and use your short nap effectively.

In addition, it is helpful if employees know how they can promote their readiness to fall asleep and switch off better through healthy eating, routines and relaxation techniques.

5. Our recommendation

International companies such as Google, Ben & Jerry's or SAP have long been relying on nap rooms, quiet oases, and flexible break planning. They report increased employee motivation, reduced risk of burnout, and improved team atmosphere.

6.Conclusion

• Increase concentration: Just a few minutes can increase mental performance.

• Stress reduction: The body can regenerate and reduce tension in a short time.

• Higher employee motivation: Those who are allowed to relax work more productively and with greater commitment.

• Health prevention: Regular recovery phases strengthen the immune system.

• Corporate culture in transition: Power napping promotes a modern, people-centered work environment.