Paradoxically, wanting to do as many things as possible, we primarily sacrifice sleep, i.e. the very element at the basis of an optimal functioning of the body and the mind. It is similar to being an athlete participating in the Olympic Games, and before starting the race, we shoot ourselves in the foot; after which we run, and we run.
You might be skeptical, ignoring probably your own experiences, and ask: Does it really matter if I’m tired at work?
All studies (a rare consensus) show that sleep deprivation or insufficient sleep has major effects on our performance and productivity. The executive functions of the brain are primarily affected, that is, those skills that help you navigate the world and make decisions.
Lack of sleep affects:
- Our ability to understand and communicate (and at work, in a rapidly changing environment, you really need this ability)
- The ability to generate innovative solutions
- Decision making
- Risk assessment
- The ability to set priorities, to distinguish detail from what is important
- Our relational capacity: we will be irritable, stressed, and insecure of our own strengths
Lack of sleep is also associated with reduced job satisfaction, work accidents and increased conflict. All these consequences concern both the employer and the employee. Everybody has something to lose. What will make the difference will be when everyone understands this.
We can’t suspect the people at Nike and Google of not being profit-focused or of having too soft approaches. However, these are two of the companies that understood that a radical change in mindset was needed: they gave employees access to training on sleep hygiene, adjusted lighting, organized relaxation rooms and allowed employees to adjust their schedules to suit the circadian rhythm, i.e. their morning or night bird nature. All these measures boosted productivity and creativity, significantly reducing absenteeism.
Some recommendations for you if you have problems sleeping (and then problems at work):
- Give sleep its rightful place in your life: No, it’s not negotiable.
- Notice what are the possible reasons that prevent you from having quality sleep: are you thinking about something in particular? Do you eat dinner too late? Can’t tear yourself away from your favorite series?
- Pay attention to your sleep hygiene, i.e. all those habits that help us have a restful sleep. Below are some examples:
- Optimal room temperature: around 19 degrees
- Go to bed at about the same time if possible
- Eliminate those habits that are an obstacle to sleep (consumption of psychostimulant substances in the evening: tobacco, chocolate, alcohol, coffee, etc)
- Keep your phone away from the bed
- Try to spend more time outside in nature.
- If you have been patient and adjusted your habits and nothing has improved in the quality of your sleep, talk to a doctor.
