I seem to do better creative work when I'm slightly underslept. This isn't just a feeling - I mark down and track what I get done each done, and how I spend my time. I get more done on the 4-5 hours of sleeping nights than longer nights of full sleep.
I've wondered why. I'm still not sure, but I've got two theories -
1. We already know from science that being moderately sleep deprived has some similar effects on you as being moderately drunk. Thus, could some relaxing of inhibitions or lack of self-judging account for higher creativity?
2. When I'm not sleeping enough, it's usually because I'm extraordinarily busy at the time. So it might be just good old fashioned momentum - if you want to get something done, give it to a busy person.
Have you had any experiences with paying attention to how much you're sleeping, and your creative output? How have you done when underslept? Any theories as to why?