We are all many things. For example, I am a husband, father, full time management-level employee, entrepreneur, accountant, investor, etc etc. I work long hours at my day job, try to spend some time with my family, and squeeze in a few hours to work on my business when I can. Days often feel too short, as if there isn’t enough time to get everything done. Often I, and probably you, resort to staying up late to try to squeeze in some extra work. This is a bad practice, and it’s killing your productivity.
Skimping on sleep will make you fall behind
Sure, it feels like you get more done when you burn the proverbial midnight oil. Heck, you worked an extra 2 or 3 hours – so you had to get more done, right?
Wrong.
After a few nights of too-little sleep, your brain loses the ability to focus as sharply. Simple tasks require more concentration, and complicated tasks even more. Trying to multi-task? Forget it, it’s not going to happen. You will work slower, even as you work longer hours. Your productivity will tank, and your creativity is likely to be toast. Sure, you’re working more, but you’re getting less done.
Get the right amount of sleep for you
Everyone’s body is different, and everyone needs a different amount of sleep. No one knows your body better than you, so listen to it. If the traditional 8 hours is for you ( it is for me ), then that’s what you need to get. Some people are lucky enough to function probably with just 7 hours a night, while others may need as much as 9. Whatever your magic number is, it’s absolutely crucial that you make time for it.
Everyone’s body is different, and everyone needs a different amount of sleep. No one knows your body better than you, so listen to it. If the traditional 8 hours is for you ( it is for me ), then that’s what you need to get. Some people are lucky enough to function probably with just 7 hours a night, while others may need as much as 9. Whatever your magic number is, it’s absolutely crucial that you make time for it.
Set a time at night to stop working and stick to it, no matter what you’re working on. You will spend less time working, but you will get more done. Plus you’ll feel a heck of a lot better, and probably be in a better mood. Your work will improve, and your spouse will like you better. Give it a chance – what do you have to lose?