Why Napping Helps Me Write

Rachel Tindall
Got Words?
Published in
4 min readJan 9, 2021

--

It’s better for productivity than you might think

It’s been on my to do list for several days to write a new article — I even had a shiny new idea picked out! It’s called What I Didn’t Know About Trauma, and I’m definitely still planning to write it.

But not today.

No, today I sat down to write and decided to nap instead.

What can I say? I love naps.

It could be because I stayed up a little too late last night finishing a book, which I haven’t done in what feels like years. It could be because for several days I’ve just felt off — a little cold-like, but nothing dire. It could be because I like to take it easier on Saturdays & Sundays. I’ve earned it throughout the week!

Mostly it’s because I like to take naps and be in bed.

And you know what? That actually helps my writing.

Here’s why:

When I’m tired, I’m not thinking about writing, or the subject matter.

I’m thinking about how tired I am, or how heavy my eyelids are, or whether it’s worth making another cup of tea with more caffeine so I can push out some extra words. None of this is productive.

When I’m thinking about napping

--

--

Rachel Tindall
Got Words?

I help everyday people write their stories. You're the perfect person to tell yours. Get to know me: https://www.capturingyourconfidence.com