When things get busy, it is one of the first things we cut down on. We go to bed a bit later, or get up a bit earlier. Or even pull an all-nighter.
But is it wise?
I guess you know the answer. But let me break it down.
Cutting down on sleep is a no-go.
During sleep, our body restores. Stress hormone (cortisol) levels dip to an ultimate low and our metabolism slows down, giving way to the growth of cells to restore muscles and tissue. The brain is also active, memories are solidified and our amygdala, responsible for regulating emotions, gets extra blood to support emotional stability during the day.
The night is meant for sleeping. Most mistakes are made during night shifts, and there are more traffic accidents at night.
The day is meant for working. Due to our circadian rhythm, in the morning our short-term memory is strongest. In the late morning you are most alert. Coordination is strongest just after lunch and in the late afternoon our reaction time is fastest.
Messing with your sleep is messing with your brain and your body. It leads to memory and attention problems, emotional instability and diseases. That is why our number one advice to stressed leaders is: sleep. Aim for eight hours a night, with a regular bed time.
So go, sleep like a baby. Well rested, you can handle anything.
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