What's the nap policy like in Japanese companies?
What's the Siesta System Really Like? A Look at How Japanese Companies Are Initiative
When I hear about taking a nap, I can almost hear someone say, "Are you a child?"
In fact, the idea of "nap" is now gaining serious attention among Japanese companies.
It's called the "Siesta System." Did you know that this long-standing custom in countries like Spain is now being introduced to Japanese companies as part of work style reform?
This time, we will take a closer look at the reality and effects of the siesta system, based on the example of Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd., which has actually introduced this system.
What is the siesta system?
The siesta system is a system that encourages employees to take short naps between work shifts. It's like an "official company-approved nap time."
In Japan, too, the number of companies introducing this system for the purpose of managing employee health and improving productivity is gradually increasing.
This is great news for business people who suffer from problems such as feeling fuzzy in the afternoon or having trouble concentrating.
Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.'s Initiatives
✔ Verification results: 2/3 of employees said their productivity had increased
An experiment was conducted within the company to examine the effect of naps on performance. As a result, two out of three employees who participated in the experiment responded that "taking a nap improved my work efficiency!"
Taking a nap is no longer just slacking off, but a strategy.
Specific details of the siesta system
- ✅ Reclining sofa installation
- ✅ Earplugs, eye masks, and other sleep aids are provided
- ✅ You can take a nap of up to 30 minutes at your leisure
In addition to the nap rooms, there is also a lounge space and a tatami-floored "sleeping area," with thorough consideration given to ensuring that employees can relax easily.
Why is napping getting so much attention?
- 🧠Improved concentration and judgment: The key to dealing with afternoon sleepiness is to “reset with a nap.”
- 🚀 Increased productivity: You'll be able to get through those afternoon tasks that just don't require willpower!
- 😌It also has benefits for your mental health: It reduces stress hormones and gives you more peace of mind.
In fact, global companies such as Google, NASA, and Uber apparently have permanent "nap pods" and "nap rooms."
A little trick to introduce naps
Even if you're thinking, "That's not possible at my workplace...", it's not too early to give up!
- Get a neck pillow for your desk
- A corner of the conference room is set aside as a nap area
- Turn off your phone notifications and set aside 15 minutes of quiet time
Depending on each individual's ingenuity, we can take the first step towards a "workplace where people can sleep."
What does the siesta system bring?
The siesta system is more than just a break; it also helps to improve the productivity and creativity of the entire team.
The idea of "taking time off in order to work hard" may become the "new normal" for working in the future.
A short nap is magical for a tired head.
Perhaps one day your company will experience such gentle moments.
Bonus: What's the ideal siesta space?
If you could create your ideal nap space, what would it be?
- A modern Japanese space with the scent of wood
- A semi-private room with comfortable chairs and an aroma diffuser
- A cozy attic with light streaming in through the window
...While you enjoy fantasizing like this, why not try taking a nap every day, one step at a time?
