Written by: Sam Jones
I tend to believe there is something about spring giving us all new energy and life. It could easily be the warmer weather, the excitement of the school year ending, and the beginning of summer possibilities that contribute to this new feeling. It reminds me of a feeling I get after doing something that may be a bit controversial: napping.
Now, I’m not talking about the Sunday afternoon nap for a few hours or the naps young kids need to remain pleasant throughout the day. I’m talking about 20-minute power naps. I became a big believer in the power nap almost 10 years ago when I learned more about Thomas Edison. Edison, a genius, creative, and diligent worker, was also the king of the power nap. He believed so strongly in the power of these naps that he had cots spread out throughout his facilities so he could grab one when he needed it. One of my favorite pictures is of Thomas Edison napping under a tree with two men in the background reading. And guess who one of those men is. President Warren G. Harding! Just think about it – you’re invited to spend time with the President of the United States, and you decide, “I think I ought to take a quick nap right now.” But apparently, this was Edison, a true believer in power naps.
From Edison and additional research, it has been shown that if you wake up right before falling into a deep sleep, around 20 minutes, you wake up with more creativity and without feeling groggy. Not only do you feel creative and energized, but you also eliminate that dragging feeling or blank mind you had before.
With this information, I want to ask, “How do you stay energized and creative?”
Compliance can be incredibly taxing. You interact with every aspect of your organization and have a wide range of goals to accomplish. And let’s not forget about compliance creep, right? If we don’t know who should own a specific task or project, let’s give it to compliance. As the head advocate for compliance in your organization, you carry an important torch to pass along to others and help light their way into a culture of compliance.
So, going back to the question, “How do you stay energized and creative?”
As we are in the midst of spring and heading towards summer, take some time to decide what you can do. Rest doesn’t always mean taking a power nap. Resting to spark creativity looks different for each person.
Reading a good book brings you rest and sparks new perspectives. Taking the time to run, do yoga, or work out in some way gives you new energy for the day. Spending time with friends and grabbing a drink or meal after work together adds some joyful rest.
Or maybe you can set up that Thomas Edison cot and grab a quick 20-minute power nap. Whatever it is you need to bring energy back into yourself and expand your creativity, do it! You’ll appreciate it, and your company will reap the benefits of a better you.
Most business leaders get frustrated when employees don’t do the right thing. You shouldn’t have to convince people to do what is right. MCA builds a compliance program and a culture where employees do the right thing, the right way, at the right time so you can focus on taking care of the people you serve.
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Midwest Compliance Associates
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