Falling asleep at work is increasingly being framed as a badge of honour in high-pressure industries, but psychotherapists warn it could be a sign of burnout or even a trauma response. While US President Donald Trump has reportedly dozed off 26 times during his second term—earning him the nickname 'Sleepy Don'—some tech leaders openly embrace napping in the office, presenting it as a mark of dedication.
Tech Leaders Embrace Office Napping
Elon Musk is known for sleeping in his offices, including at X headquarters after purchasing the social media platform. He was investigated by San Francisco authorities for converting office space into bedrooms for workers, emailing staff that they would 'need to be extremely hardcore' to stay at the company. Similarly, Nico Laqua, co-founder of AI-native insurance startup Corgi, keeps a mattress on his office floor and sleeps just three hours a night, with his workplace described as having 'the most intense workplace culture in America'.
This trend is not limited to individual leaders. Some companies have installed sleep pods for employees. Google has introduced high-tech pods dotted around the office, while Ben & Jerry's and Nike's offices in Portland, Oregon, have dedicated nap rooms.
Power Naps: A Double-Edged Sword
On the one hand, short naps can be beneficial. Harvard Medical School states that a power nap of 10 to 30 minutes can effectively increase alertness and focus. However, requiring sleep during work may also be a classic symptom of burnout. UKCP psychotherapist Hannah McCamley Jackson explains, 'It might be a sign of overwhelm, and with that, dissociation. Basically your nervous system can't cope. It's working overtime to keep you going, but it's working out ways for you to get a break.'
In some cases, falling asleep at work could be a trauma response. Jackson adds, 'It might seem extreme, but actually our body has gone into a trauma response of freeze. We just can't take on anymore.' She notes that in high-power environments, there is always a sense that someone is coming up behind you, leaving employees feeling they have no choice. 'We can put it down to the culture, or we can discount our own experience because everyone's burnt out too,' she says.
Disciplinary Risks and Legal Implications
While some may view a nap as harmless, most UK workplaces interpret sleeping at your desk as unprofessional. Jim Moore, employee relations expert at HR consultants Hamilton Nash, advises that managers should be concerned with employee wellbeing. 'Treating a workplace nap as a disciplinary issue without investigating the real cause can be unfair and unproductive,' he says. Punishments could range from a verbal warning to disciplinary sanctions if the behaviour persists without an underlying medical or welfare issue.
Advocating for Yourself at Work
Jackson emphasises that employees do have choices, even if it feels difficult. 'It's very difficult to admit that actually this environment might not work for you,' she says. 'But that's also wrapped in shame, and a sense of failure. There's also a real fear of recessions and financial instability.' She advises communicating work-life balance expectations early and asking questions about office culture. 'We shouldn't be careless with ourselves,' she concludes.
If you feel burnt out, it is recommended to see your GP, and there may be grounds for medical leave while you recuperate. Understanding company policy around working hours and being honest with yourself about what you can cope with are crucial steps.
