Are You Losing a Full Night's Sleep Every Week?

The Modern Sleep Dilemma

In this world where so much is fighting for our time and attention, we often feel a greater need to wind down and do something for ourselves after expending energy on work, family, home, and friends. To reclaim a sense of self, we might throw ourselves onto the sofa and scroll—seeking out what resonates with us—or get engrossed in an on-demand series, allowing ourselves "just one more" episode before bed, feeling better for having some "me time."

The Hidden Cost of 'Me Time'

While it's good to connect with something that fills our sense of time and gives back to us, are we aware of how it creeps into our much-needed rest, repair, and replenish sleep time? Losing just one hour of sleep a day over a week equates to losing an entire night's sleep, assuming seven hours is our ideal sleep quota.

The Compound Effect of Sleep Loss

• Over a week: 1 night of lost sleep

• Over a month: 4 nights of lost sleep

• Over a year: 52 nights of lost sleep

When we look at it this way, would any of us consciously agree to give up that much sleep?

The Power of Positive Compounding

The good news is that the compound effect works in reverse too. By being mindful of your bedtime routine and honouring it, you give yourself back the equivalent of:

- A night's sleep a week

- 4 nights' sleep a month

- 52 nights' sleep a year

A Simple Strategy for Better Sleep

I've managed to honour this by setting a reminder alarm on my phone an hour before my bedtime. For me, this is 9 PM as I get up at 4:30 AM to get lots done when all is quiet and still. So at 8 PM, I'm reminded to start winding down.

The Benefits of Prioritizing Sleep

Even though I have a lot going on and my brain cells are challenged throughout the day as I learn new skills about setting up and running a business, I KNOW I will get my sleep in. My nervous system thanks me for that by being much calmer and not screaming for attention that I'm ignoring what my body needs.

Your Sleep Challenge

This week, try setting a bedtime alarm and see how it impacts your energy and well-being. Your future self will thank you!