0214 Why Good Sleep Is Essential for Productivity

Why Good Sleep Is Essential for Productivity

Are you staying up late studying or preparing for meetings? You might be doing yourself more harm than good. A productive day at school or work doesn't just start in the morning — it starts with getting a good night's sleep first.

We need sleep for almost every system in our body, from our heart to our immune system. We also need sleep to be able to think clearly, learn and understand new information, and manage our emotions — all things that are essential for studying and getting work done!

When we don't get enough sleep, we can experience trouble with concentration and make more mistakes. Sleep deprivation can affect our time management and organization skills, making it harder to meet deadlines. It can also make us more likely to get sick and miss classes or work days.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most adults need at least seven hours of sleep a night, but a lot of people don't get that much. According to the CDC, one in three US adults doesn't get even seven hours. And it's estimated that around 70% of people in the UK aren't meeting their sleep goals either.

Research has found that people who sleep five to six hours a night are 19% less productive than those who sleep seven or eight hours. And the less you sleep, the less you get done, as people only getting five hours of sleep a night are 29% less productive.

There is a health and safety side too, as sleep deprivation among workers can increase the chances of workplace accidents.

So, set yourself up for success by making sleep a priority. Stick to a regular sleep schedule and routine, and make it easier to relax in the evening by avoiding screens, for example.

Your body will thank you — and you should find that you're more productive too!