Importance of Sleep

Did you know that the secret to career success might be as simple as getting a good night's sleep? Yes, you read that correctly. Sleep, often overlooked, plays a pivotal role in our overall wellbeing and productivity, significantly impacting our performance in the workplace. Sleep is not merely a time for rest. It's when our body and brain engage in critical processes that restore and rejuvenate us for the following day. Lack of quality sleep can impair our cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities, all of which are essential for optimal job performance. A well-rested mind is a more productive mind.

The temptation to stay awake long past the late hours, browsing internet forums, social media, shopping online and watching videos is stronger than ever before, with algorithms specifically designed to keep us scrolling. So how do we resist and prioritise our health and our working lives? This is a modern problem that requires a modern solution, with research indicating that adults require seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

However, it's not just the quantity, but the quality of sleep that matters. Deep, uninterrupted sleep helps rejuvenate the mind and body, enhancing creativity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage stress, all of which contribute significantly to workplace performance. Sleep loss can make it easier to feel mentally drained from even the smallest of tasks, let alone long or strenuous tasks you may be expected to perform at your workplace.

A recent study found that sleep deprivation costs the UK economy up to £40 billion a year, equivalent to 1.86% of the country's GDP, primarily due to decreased productivity and increased mortality risk. Imagine the boost to our economy, not to mention individual career trajectories, if we all just slept a little better. Furthermore, adequate sleep promotes emotional well-being, improving our capacity to handle work challenges and interact positively with colleagues. This can lead to better teamwork, a more enjoyable work environment, and ultimately, career advancement. So, how do we get better sleep?

Tip 1: Sleep at regular times

By sleeping at regular times the brain and internal body clock are programmed to get used to a set routine. Most people should try to get somewhere between 6 and 9 hours of sleep every night. Figure out what time you need to wake up so you can create a regular bedtime schedule. It is also important to try and wake up at the same time every day. While it may seem like a good idea at first to catch up on sleep after an unsuccessful night, doing so on a regular basis could risk disrupting your sleep routine.

Tip 2: Wind Down

Winding down is crucial, as this can make or break a night of sleep. Going to bed feeling anxious or anything other than relaxed is just going to have you rolling around, tossing and turning all night. Avoid using anything that has a blue screen thirty minutes before bed, so that includes your phone, television and any computers. This is because the blue light has been proven to strain your eyes, making you feel more awake while looking at them. Try listening to soothing music and reading or listening to a book before bed. It helps to relax you and distracts your mind.

Tip3: Warm wash

You can use either a bath or a shower for this step. I know this might sound a little too simple, but it honestly works wonders. This will help your body reach a temperature that's ideal for rest, and sooth the muscles ready to relax.

Combining these three tips should ensure that you get to bed on time and enjoy enough sleep to ensure that your next shift is both comfortable and safe. If you are using all these tips and are still struggling to sleep it might be worth getting in touch with your local GP. Our team is dedicated to finding work with hours that fit you and your health, while also encouraging a healthier lifestyle for all of our clients.

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