Most people are generally aware of the importance of sleep. However, in practice, many perceive sleep as a lesser priority than getting tasks done. The all-nighter is the classic “solution” to having too much stuff to get done, but that all-nighter could be doing more harm than you would ever expect.
If you’re a busy small business owner, chances are you’re not prioritizing sleep over the daily tasks that require the majority of your time and attention. Well, we’re here to remind you just how important it is to prioritize a full night of solid, deep sleep not only for your own sake but also for the sake of your business.
Recent studies indicate that there is an essential connection between sleep and our ability to create new memories. In a study conducted by sleep expert Matthew Walker, it was found that those who pulled all-nighters had a 40% deficiency in their ability to retain new information. So, in order to stay sharp and give your small business the attention to detail it deserves, sleep is essential.
Sleep also has a significant connection to the immune system. Matt Walker’s study also concluded that in adults that slept 6 hours every night for a week (rather than the recommended 8 hours), there was a significant drop in immune function. A decrease in immune function risks illness and running a small business efficiently is rather difficult if you’re getting sick often.
A lack of sleep also increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, inflammation and the production of tumors. Generally, your health and longevity are threatened by poor sleep habits. Not only will these threats diminish your personal quality of life, but they can also deeply affect your business. In order to maximize the life of your small business, it’s important to consider how health issues caused by a lack of sleep can shift your time, energy, thoughts and general efforts away from your business.
A proper sleeping routine can make a real impact on your productivity, ability to retain new information, your physical health and, consequently, on the ability to run your business as efficiently as possible. Consider these simple, helpful tips to get better sleep: ● Avoid naps during the day so you’re more tired at night.
● Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
● Create a consistent schedule. Try to go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time every day.
● Keep your sleeping space cool. The best sleep is achieved when the room is about 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
So, next time skip the all-nighter. You and your small business will be better off because of it.