This study shows that people who take a short nap are less reactive and more accurate in their emotional appraisal.
A Role for REM Sleep in Recalibrating the Sensitivity of the Human Brain to Specific Emotions
Perhaps obvious that when we’re rested we’re better able to access our emotional intelligence — but a good reminder. Sleep deprivation is extremely common, and has serious effects on our physical and mental wellbeing (here’s some data from Stanford University). My experience is that when I’m tired, small things bug me more, I’m less patient, and less creative in my problem solving. I also “don’t feel like exercising” when I’m tired… which, of course, leads to another vicious circle.
So, I’m off to bed now!
