These days, a lot of successful people pride themselves on not getting much sleep. While this might work for a handful of people for a limited stretch of time, it’s not a healthy way to live. And, eventually, lack of sleep on a nightly basis will catch up to you. It will make it hard to focus and be productive, and it will lead to moodiness and irritability, among other consequences.
If you want long-term success as an entrepreneur, not to mention good health, then adequate sleep is critical. Here are some tips to get you started:
Don’t think that you’re alone.
First of all, it’s important to realize that if you’re not getting the sleep you need, you’re not alone. MarketingEye explains that insomnia is very common among entrepreneurs for a variety of reasons. For example, it could be that you feel like you didn’t accomplish enough that day, you’re stressed about your workload (or lack thereof), or you simply have tons of exciting ideas swimming through your head.
Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean that you should ignore sleeplessness and let it continue. It’s essential to take any steps necessary to improve your sleep so that you can perform at your best and stay healthy.
Get a new mattress.
One of the most practical things you can do to improve your sleep is to get a better mattress, especially if your current mattress is older than seven years. Waking up with back or neck pain and finding it hard to get comfortable are other signs that you need a new mattress.
The quickest and most convenient way to get a new mattress is to order a bed in a box and have it delivered to your home. During your search for the right mattress, be sure to factor in your sleep style and weight.
Get plenty of exercise.
Exercise is a tried and true method for feeling great during the day and getting enough sleep at night. By adding at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, preferably with high exertion, you set yourself up for a better night’s sleep. And we get it, you’re busy, but exercise shouldn’t be a potential activity, it should be a standing appointment you keep daily, even if you have to break up the time. If you need motivation, a personal trainer app can be a valuable resource. The best personal trainer apps offer customizable workouts, fitness coaching and even meal plans
Strike a work-life balance.
No really, do it. A lot of entrepreneurs talk about finding a good work-life balance, but few actually accomplish it. However, striking that balance is a key element of maintaining your health and happiness, which can indirectly have a positive impact on your sleep. Set out to prioritize your personal life, outsource tasks when you can, and make good hires.
Maximize quality.
Quantity of sleep is important (Mayo Clinic says 7-9 hours is ideal for adults). However, in many ways, quality of sleep is even more important. You can improve the quality of your sleep by doing a few a simple things:
- Keeping the temperature between 60 and 68 degrees.
- Keeping your bedroom dark and quiet.
- Avoiding electronic screens at bedtime.
Create a good routine.
Finally, developing a solid routine is paramount to achieving good sleep on a regular basis. This starts with establishing a good morning and daytime routine that includes exercising and eating right.
Then find a few things to do in the evening that help you fall asleep, such as taking a warm bath, doing light yoga poses, practicing mindful meditation, or taking magnesium. Keep in mind some magnesium supplements contain other active ingredients, so do a bit of research if you go this route and find the best one for you.
Getting adequate sleep is critical to any entrepreneur’s long-term health and success. Ensure you’re comfortable and adjust your habits to promote your slumber. You might be surprised by how much practical actions like these can promote your sleep and health—and ultimately your business.
