Sleep better to Lead better!

How to Sleep Longer and LEAD Better?


Before we dive in, let's start with a quick sleep quiz. What is a common cause of waking up frequently during the night?
A. Eating a heavy meal before bed
B. Exercising regularly
C. Using a firm mattress
D. Drinking alcohol before bed

Answer is A: Eating a heavy meal before bed.

Harvard Business Review's recent special issue "How to lead when everyone's exhausted?" hit the nail on the head. The cover photo says it all - all the flowers have the same access to water, but only one is flourishing. The caption reads "Relieve the pressure, recharge, and get the right work done".

I recently worked with a CEO and his executive team of 8 people. He has close to 40 years of business experience and is a strong, dynamic leader with great people skills. Sounds like an 'all-rounder', right? The kind of leader we need more of.

However, when I first met the CEO a few months ago, he looked disheveled, extremely tired, and like one of those 'wilting flowers'. This exhaustion has a domino effect on his executive team.

Whether you head up a business or a team... ask yourself: "are you flourishing, or are you one of the wilting flowers?

About 10 out of 12 people that I work with are WILTING

The solution starts with prioritizing QUALITY SLEEP.

Here are 8 tips to help you sleep longer and lead better:
1. Aim for 7 hours of sleep tonight.
2. Eat a lighter meal, and earlier in the evening.
3. Plan to exercise for 20-30 minutes tomorrow morning.
4. Stretch on your bedroom floor tonight.
5. Listen to a good podcast or use a sleep app.
6. Avoid mobile devices, computers, and TV 60-90 minutes before bed.
7. Read a book, chat with your partner, or do a puzzle.
8. Limit yourself to no more than two small alcoholic drinks per night.

By prioritizing quality sleep, you'll be able to recharge, relieve the pressure, and get the right work done as a leader. Don't be a 'wilting flower' - flourish and lead your team to success.

#bounceforwardandbefightingfit #leadershipselfcare

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