As an HR leader, you may have noticed that employees often struggle to find solutions to problems, both in work contexts and in their personal lives. The more they try to find the answer, the more stressed they become. This can lead to them using bedtime to think about work, turning rest into a new work session.
The idea that the brain can work on problems while we sleep is appealing. Research shows that there is some truth to this, but it is important to remember that the quality and duration of sleep vary significantly between individuals.
What the research actually shows
A study with 103 participants showed that those who took a short nap discovered better solutions to problems than those who stayed awake. This effect was most pronounced in the lightest sleep phase but faded away in deeper sleep. This indicates that the transition between wakefulness and sleep can open up new connections, which is relevant for workplaces looking to promote creativity.
However, it is important to understand that this is not a universal solution. The results depend heavily on the type of task and how sleep is managed. This can be significant for how you, as a leader, facilitate for employees.
When problem-solving becomes a stress response
The most useful question for leaders may be why employees feel pressured to solve problems immediately. This can include fears of losing control, concerns about responsibility, or that mistakes reflect poorly on them.
- If I can't find the answer, I lose control.
- If I take a break, I'm irresponsible.
- If this goes wrong, it says something about me.
Recognizing such expectations can be the key to creating a more relaxed and productive work culture.
Practical measures for better problem-solving
As part of the StoppStress program, employees can learn techniques to manage evening pressure. An effective measure can be to write down questions before bedtime and make an agreement on when to revisit these. This can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Through the Harmoni app, employees can map situations that trigger stress and practice new ways to handle them. By using memory reconsolidation, we can help employees create a safer work environment where they can rest without worrying about unfinished tasks.
Do you want to improve the work environment?
Implement the StoppStress program to reduce absenteeism and improve team dynamics.
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Do you want to reduce absenteeism in your company?
The StoppStress program uses memory reconsolidation to provide employees with lasting tools against stress. Read more at stoppstress.no →