To make any type of rational decision, the mind must be able to focus. Without enough sleep, energy and concentration may be at an all-time low. Getting enough sleep is particularly important for leadership roles as it dictates the outcome of team-work and ultimate goals.
How Much Sleep Is Enough?
Today’s adults grew up learning that 8 hours is the gold standard for sleep hygiene. Although it is still recommended by doctors, there are other sleep patterns that can be just as effective. Since a significant number of business leaders and high-level executives are not able to achieve 8 full hours of consecutive sleep, many healthcare providers suggest 7 hours at a bare minimum.
Quality of sleep is often more beneficial to an executive than quantity. If an individual sleeps 12 hours, but only in short increments, this is not as restful as consecutive sleep for 7 hours. Practicing sleep hygiene such as setting a consistent bed time and turning off screens an hour before sleep is recommended.
How Does Sleep Impact Business?
Enough sleep can improve the workplace in a number of different ways. Since a lack of sleep frequently impacts emotion, this can damage team morale.
Low quality sleep frequently causes moodiness and impatience. For complex problems in the workforce, a business leader or employer cannot afford miscommunication and outward frustration. Those who are in leadership roles can perpetuate this attitude by sending emails in the middle of the night or expecting results in an unreasonable amount of time.
The neocortex is the part of the brain responsible for sensory perception, language and motor skills. When this part of the brain is negatively affected by a lack of sleep, executive functioning may be impaired. To increase problem solving ability in the workplace, leaders function best with a significant amount of quality and quantity sleep.
Physical Performance in the Workplace
At least 7 hours of quality sleep per night can help repair executive brain function. With enough sleep executives can communicate effectively with employees and company teams. Since a leader must have subordinates, healthy relationships are the foundation of success.