Still, on the thread of rest that I talked about in yesterday’s post, I mentioned how important sleep is for, well, everything in our lives.
Benefits of Healthy Sleep
Healthy sleep allows us to consolidate new information and skills. It helps us to manage our emotions and reduce stress and anxiety. Proper amounts of sleep even improve our physical health by helping us recover properly from exercise and improve weight by avoiding the increased cravings associated with chronic sleep deprivation. Good sleep over long periods of time can help to extend our lifespan.
Learning About Sleep
I learned most of this a few years ago when I read Dr. Matthew Walker’s book Why We Sleep. I read it during a time when I was still working the night shift as an ER nurse (this might have been the first clue that it was time for me to look for a new career). Since then, I have made huge changes in my sleep habits and reread his book a few times to remind myself of the importance of healthy sleep habits. In Effortless, Greg McKeown talks about how deep sleep is key and ways to achieve it can include shutting off electronic devices an hour before bedtime, going to bed at the same time each night, and taking a hot shower within 90 minutes of bedtime.
The Role of Naps
McKeown also talks about how naps can be immensely beneficial for people’s health and productivity. I have read that same sentiment across many books and articles over the years and so wish that it was something I could do. Unfortunately, for me, napping is an almost instant migraine trigger. I haven’t quite figured out the “why” behind it, but hope to one day solve that mystery so that I can incorporate naps into my daily routine.
Sleep and Business Success
Business owners, especially those who wear multiple (or even all of) the hats, are particularly susceptible to sacrificing their sleep in order to put more into their business thinking that it will help them. When in reality, it is detrimental—not just to their business and their clients, but to their own health. Prioritizing sleep is such an important step to running a successful business.
Ponder This
- How can you improve your sleep habits for better health and productivity?
- How do you manage sleep and rest as a busy business owner?
- What strategies from McKeown’s or Walker’s books could you implement in your daily routine?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Books
- Effortless - Greg McKeown
- Why We Sleep - Matthew Walker
Comments