Success Hack -> Go the F*ck to Sleep
Inspired by the work of Ryan Holiday, this post dives into a points we all need more of: get enough sleep. While some may still see lack of sleep as a badge of honor, it turns out that importance of rest might just be the real productivity hack we’ve all been searching for. Holidays wisdom on sleep shows that it’s not just a luxury; it’s a necessary tool for success.
1. Stop Glorifying Exhaustion
Some wear their sleep deprivation like a badge of honor, but here’s the reality: you’re not an exception. Studies show that people who claim to function fine on five hours of sleep are usually kidding themselves - A while ago I did too. The world doesn’t need another “4-hour sleeper”—we need sharp, rested minds. So, try getting a full night’s sleep, and maybe you’ll realize more effective your.
2. Keep the Phone in Another Room
No offense to your alarm app, but keeping your phone on your nightstand is like inviting distraction to bed. Use an old-school alarm clock and stash your phone in another room. This way, you won’t be tempted to scroll through late-night social media rabbit holes or check those “urgent” emails that can definitely wait until morning.
3. Invest in a Good Mattress (It’s Worth It)
It took me a decade to upgrade from a mattress that felt like cardboard. Sure, investing in good sleep gear isn’t as exciting as a new gadget, but a good mattress pays dividends. So, if your bed feels like a medieval torture device, consider it an investment in your well-being. Good sleep gear equals good sleep.
4. Embrace the Power Nap (Not Just for Kids)
Here’s where I slightly disagree with the “just sleep at night” crowd. Naps aren’t just for toddlers or burnt-out college students—they’re for anyone who wants an extra boost. A 20-minute nap can do wonders, especially when you’re hitting that mid-afternoon slump. Your brain will thank you for it.
5. Move During the Day for Better Nights - (Exercise)
The science is clear: daily movement improves sleep. It doesn’t have to be marathon training—a brisk walk, a bike ride, or some yoga will do. Regular exercise tires the body, so when bedtime comes, you’ll sleep like a rock. This daily dose of movement is a sleep hack you don’t want to skip.
6. Prioritize Bedtime, Not Just Morning Routines
A disciplined morning routine is great, but how about a bedtime routine? Instead of letting exhaustion win at night, make a habit of winding down at the same time each evening. No screen time, no late-night stress—just a smooth transition into rest mode. It’s called “beauty sleep” for a reason!
Credit to Ryan Holiday for bringing the importance of sleep to the forefront. His work has been a huge inspiration for me, and if you haven’t already, check out his writings—you won’t regret it!