Why sleep is the hidden secret of business success

What if I could tell you a powerful secret that would help you prevent stress from even getting started? I can, and I will – but it's so simple that you might be tempted to disregard it.

The secret is: get enough sleep! I told you it was simple.

But think about it for a minute. How do you feel when you're really tired and run down? Cranky, right? Impatient. Frustrated. Short-tempered. Stressed.

When you're tired, you don't have the mental or physical stamina you need to meet your daily demands. You just don't. It's like trying to run an appliance on limited power. You'll either get poor performance, or glitches will occur so it doesn't run properly.

Yet the busier we get, the more tempting it is to skimp on sleep. Please don't do that to yourself.

How much sleep you need each night will be individual to you. Some people require only 6 hours, while others might need 9 or 10 hours to be fully functional.

Experiment to determine your optimal amount of sleep - and then stick to it!

I know it's terribly tempting to stay up later than you should, but you pay dearly for it the next day. If you get into the habit of giving your body and mind the rest they need, you'll reap so many wonderful benefits. Not only will you feel more energetic, you'll be able to concentrate better, accomplish more in less time, AND avoid feeling so stressed out.

Bonus tip: Of course, secondary to getting enough rest is also CHOOSING not to get stressed. Many of us tend to let outside influences affect our state of mind. One little thing happens and our mood is ruined for the entire day. Don't let that happen to you! If you find yourself starting to get stressed, get away for a few minutes - even if you have to sneak into the restroom to take a few deep breaths.

Start your day with a strong intention to stay calm and focused, no matter what else is going on around you. It may take a bit of practice to control your thoughts and emotions when it counts, but it's a habit that will continue to serve you well for the rest of your life.

These are just small pieces of the puzzle. Another important part of time management is learning to be kinder to yourself, did you know that? It's not about forcing yourself to do more or be more. It's about creating a life that honors you and reflects who you really are. Giving your body the rest it needs is just one part of the process!