The Power of Rest: How Early Bedtimes Can Help You Overcome Stress and Anxiety as an Entrepreneur
Hey there fellow entrepreneur!
I’m just going to jump right into this one… I've been through the wringer when it comes to stress, anxiety, and burnout. I've worked long hours, skipped meals, and pushed myself to the brink of exhaustion. And let me tell you, it wasn't pretty. I was irritable, forgetful, and constantly on edge. I knew something had to change, and that's when I discovered the power of hitting my pillow earlier than most.
Giving yourself permission to sleep
Now, I know what you're probably thinking. "But I have so much to do! I can't afford to go to bed early!" Believe me, I've been there. But here's the thing: by prioritizing sleep, you actually become more productive. When you're well-rested, your mood improves, you have more energy, and you're able to get more done in less time. It's a win-win situation.
Of course, getting enough sleep is easier said than done. As women entrepreneurs, we have a million things on our to-do lists, and it can be ridiculously tough to switch off our brains at night. That's why I've developed a few strategies to help me wind down and prepare for a good night's sleep.
First of all, I try to establish a (loose) bedtime routine. This could include anything from taking a warm bath to reading a book to meditating. The key is to find activities that help you relax and signal to your brain that it's time for sleep.
I also try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bed. That means no scrolling through Instagram, no checking work emails, and no binge-watching Netflix. Instead, I'll listen to calming music while doing some light stretching and then wrap up my night with a fiction book (which never fails to help make me drowsy).
The things that matter
Getting a good night's sleep isn't just about what you do before bedtime - it's also about creating the right sleeping environment. And one of the most important factors in creating a comfortable sleeping environment is having a good mattress and pillows.
Investing in a high-quality mattress and pillows can be a game-changer for your sleep quality. When you're comfortable in bed, you're more likely to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. Plus, it's a nice little luxury that can make a big difference in your overall sleep quality. I used to be the woman who just grabbed whatever pillow I saw at HomeSense ... until I spent $100 on one from the mattress store and now I'll never go back.
But how do you know what kind of mattress and pillows to choose? There are so many options out there, from memory foam to latex to traditional innerspring mattresses. And when it comes to pillows, there are different sizes, shapes, and materials to consider.
The key is to do your research and find a mattress and pillows that work for your sleeping preferences. Do you prefer a firm or soft mattress? Do you sleep on your back, side, or stomach? These are all factors to consider when choosing a mattress. And try them out! Go to the store, climb on the beds, try out different mattresses, and don't be shy. Take your time and find the one that works for you. We recently shifted from a pillow top to a different type because it felt better on my lower back (which is always sore from lifting kids and sitting at a desk).
And sheets - these are important, too! Speaking of sheets, investing in high-quality sheets can also make a big difference in your sleep quality. Soft, breathable sheets can help regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable throughout the night. Plus, they just feel luxurious and can add to the overall cozy feeling of being in bed (yes, please!).
When it comes to choosing sheets, look for materials like cotton, bamboo, or linen, which are all breathable and comfortable. And don't be afraid to splurge a little - high-quality sheets can last for years and be well worth the investment.
When sleep feels impossible
Now, I know that some nights, even with the best intentions, it can be impossible to fall asleep. That's when I turn to my trusty arsenal of sleep aids. Of course, I try to stick with natural remedies like chamomile tea or lavender essential oil, but sometimes I need a little extra help. That's when I'll take a melatonin supplement or use a sleep app to guide me through a meditation or relaxation exercise.
I also try not to beat myself up too much if I have a bad night's sleep. It happens to the best of us, and sometimes there's just nothing you can do about it. Instead, I focus on the things that are within my control, like establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a calming bedtime routine.
I truly believe that prioritizing sleep has been a game-changer for me as a woman entrepreneur. Not only am I more productive and efficient during the day, but I'm also a nicer person to be around! When you're constantly running on fumes, it's easy to snap at your colleagues or loved ones. I was so used to functioning on less sleep (as many moms with young kids are) that I forgot how much better it felt when I was well-rested.
But when you're well-rested, you have more patience and compassion. (Trust me, people enjoy that!). I now prioritize sleep over all other activities. It’s not worth another Netflix episode, a movie night-in, or maybe even staying up late to try to get “ahead” of your day tomorrow.
Takeaway
Of course, I'm not saying that getting enough sleep is a magic cure-all for stress and anxiety. There are plenty of other things you can do to manage those feelings, like practicing mindfulness, seeking therapy or working with a coach. But I do think that proper rest is an often-overlooked piece of the puzzle (especially for women).
So, to all my fellow women entrepreneurs out there who are feeling anxious, stressed, and on the verge of burnout, I encourage you to give earlier bedtimes a try. It may take some time to establish a regular sleep routine, but trust me, it's worth it.
Your body and mind will thank you.
If you’re looking for more support with managing your stress and mental wellness as an entrepreneur, let’s talk about how unlimited laser coaching can help you. Click here to book a pressure-free discovery call.