One of the first things we think of when planning for productivity is how we can accomplish more in our finite 24-hour days. But if we think that “catch-up” sleep or trying to more on less rest are good ideas, we may be sadly mistaken. So are we doing sleep right?
The links between sleep and productivity have been mused about for years. As any parent or entrepreneur will tell you, some of us know this a bit too well.
But are our sleeping habits helping or hindering our productivity?
The short answer is yes, a lack of sleep can contribute tremendously to a low-level of productivity. Here are a few resources for you to help determine how to make the most of your sleep so you are recharged and ready to go when you wake up to face your day.
Why Weekend Catch-Up Sleep is Not Good For Productivity
Most of us look forward to the weekend just so that we can pay off the week’s “sleep debt” with more napping hours over the weekend. But that’s not a good idea. Pooja Singh explains how a study at the University of Colorado-Boulder shows that “catch-up” sleep may be doing more harm than good.
Whether you have a big presentation at work tomorrow or you’re running a marathon, friends and family are quick to tell you to “get a good night’s sleep.”
This post at Tuck.com addresses the problem of trying to be more productive on less sleep, and shows how that idea is the opposite of helpful.
Why a Lack of Sleep is a Productivity Nightmare
Feeling a little groggy? Hitting the coffee first thing in the morning to jolt yourself into alertness?Maybe you aren’t getting enough sleep.
When we don’t get enough shut-eye, we have trouble concentrating, working, making decisions, remembering things, and being our best selves. We get crabby, tetchy, and unpleasant to be around. But the problem is more serious than just being in a bad mood.