Sleep affects productivity at work

Unlike previous work based on surveys and small samples, the scientists used objective digital data: total sleep time, time to fall asleep, number of nighttime awakenings, chronotype, and discrepancies between weekday and weekend sleep patterns — the so-called social jet lag. The parameters were compared with special indicators reflecting a decrease in productivity in the workplace.

The analysis showed a U-shaped relationship between sleep duration and performance.: Both too short and too long sleep were associated with large productivity losses. Prolonged falling asleep, fragmented sleep, and pronounced social jet lag also had a negative impact.

Using machine learning techniques, the researchers identified five types of sleep: healthy, prolonged, fragmented, prone to insomnia, and social jet lag. The greatest decrease in productivity was observed in people from the last two groups, regardless of gender.

To maintain high performance, not only the duration of sleep is important, but also its quality, stability, and time. Smartphone sleep tracking can be an effective tool for identifying risk groups and developing personalized recommendations for improving sleep and improving work efficiency.

The researchers insist that sleep is the very first step towards feeling better and achieving your life goals.