Why sleep is your new best business strategy 

Yes, it’s an unusual business metric to be watching carefully but after a year spent monitoring the changes that tweaking a few lifestyle habits makes, Katrina McCarter is prepared to say this in public: sleep is your new best business strategy.

Studies from the likes of the Mayo Clinic show adults need at least seven hours of sleep a night to be at their best. And quality is just as important as quantity. We all need sleep that’s uninterrupted, but often, that’s easier said than done—it’s hard to turn off a business brain when your head hits the pillow.

Small biz owners work with such passion and determination, and sleep health is often sacrificed while we chase business success. As part of my own preventative medicine regimen, I’m aiming to average 7.5 hours of sleep a night for a year.

During the week, I’m likely to go to bed later because I’m in work mode. That means I disconnect and rest on weekends to build up my sleep bank and maintain my average. I aim to get at least one nine-hour plus sleep each week, which means I’m likely to have a good next seven days.

As a guide, my big sleep night is usually on Saturday. Yes, hitting the hay is a much more alluring priority these days than hitting the town.

Sleep is your new best business strategy right now because it has such a profound impact on emotional well-being and physical health.

Here’s five reasons why small biz owners should prioritise sleep:

Enhanced decision making

Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, including problem solving. Sharp decision making is essential for navigating the complexities of running a small business. And right now, with difficult business conditions, being on your game is critical.

Increased productivity:

A well-rested mind is more productive. Sleep lets your brain recharge and process information, which boosts creativity that sparks new ideas and solutions and gives small biz owners a competitive edge.

Better stress management

Sleep helps regulate stress hormones, which means you handle business challenges with a clearer head. Chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate stress, leading to burnout. The BIG Small Business Survey 2023 found 42% of small biz owners say mental health is a challenge, and sleep is an inbuilt easy way to claw back some ground and set yourself up for success. I know how much proper sleep plays a role with my emotional regulation too. Running a business can be stressful, and if we’re well rested it’s easier to develop and keep a positive outlook and handle setbacks with resilience and energy.

Improved physical health

Sleep supports immune function, regulates metabolism and aids in physical recovery. A healthy body is essential for sustaining the demands of running a business.

Stronger relationships

Sleep deprivation might be negatively impacting not just your mood but relationships. And we know strong relationships with employees, clients, and family are crucial for business success and personal fulfillment. I’m a much nicer person if I’m getting good sleep (just ask my kids).

Remember, prioritising sleep doesn’t mean sacrificing your business. It’s about optimising your time and energy for maximum productivity and well-being so you can think on your feet, respond to challenges and seize opportunities.

Time to be honest: How much sleep are you really getting? Are you working at your peak performance?

5 sleep tips for small business owners that have worked for me:

1. Invest in a FitBit and download the app. This has been absolutely transformational for me. As a data geek, I track my REM, Deep Sleep and overall sleep score each night. It keeps me laser focused on my sleep quality and its metrics mean I learn more about what helps me sleep better and what really knocks my sleep around.
2. No computer in bed. Seriously. Or only in emergencies! The bed is for sleeping and letting my brain disconnect.
3. Cut back on alcohol and caffeine, particularly mid-week. After monitoring my sleep quality for about 18 months now I know even one drink reduces my REM and Deep Sleep periods. That lowers my overall sleep score and I wake feeling tired. So I drink alcohol no more than two nights a week and am caffeine free except for weekend chai lattes.
4. Exercise! I went through most of my 40s not moving my body enough and sleeping badly. Doing cardio exercise three times a week has helped ensure I’m tired and calm when I go to sleep.
5. Reduce your screen time. About a year ago I gave up free to air TV, after decades of being hooked to the TV at night. This May I gave up all my streaming channels too. I haven’t missed it—but I do find getting off my phone the recommended two hours before bed is a super big ask. I love a just-before-sleep look over my socials or house hunting (I’m currently looking to buy). So let’s say, be conscious of how much time you spend at night on screens and look to reduce it a little if sleep is an issue.

Of course, this isn’t medical advice and I highly recommend a chat to your doctor about your own circumstances. I’m sharing what’s worked for me—and I can say for sure my sleep time has become the secret weapon in making the most of my awake time.

Join the soloist movement. Whether you are new to Flying Solo or looking to grow your business, our membership options will help you attract more leads, grow your network and sharpen your business skills.  Sign up to our newsletter to get the latest news and advice straight to your inbox.

Now read this

//corestage-cdn.flyingsolo.com.au/opinion/sleep-is-mother-natures-bio-hack-how-to-get-more-of-the-good-stuff/