Why Sleep is the Secret Weapon of Top Performers
Written by Brooke Hohenadel – Certified Sleep Consultant | Speaker & Corporate Wellness Trainer | Helping Individuals & Organizations Sleep Better
The Science: Sleep Fuels Cognitive Excellence
According to a study published in Sleep, even moderate sleep deprivation (less than six hours per night) for just one week can result in cognitive declines equivalent to being legally intoxicated (Van Dongen et al., 2003). Sleep enhances memory consolidation, decision-making, emotional regulation, and creative problem-solving—all crucial for effective leadership.
Neuroscientist Matthew Walker, author of Why We Sleep, notes that sleep is “the greatest legal performance-enhancing drug that most people are probably neglecting.” Leaders who sleep well are sharper, more resilient under pressure, and more adept at navigating complex challenges.
Another important benefit of sleep? Emotional intelligence. Research has found that people who are well-rested show more empathy and are better at reading social cues—both essential skills for building strong teams and navigating interpersonal dynamics at work. It’s not just about individual output; it’s about being a better collaborator, communicator, and visionary.
Tip to Try Tonight: Set a Sleep Curfew
Top performers treat sleep like a non-negotiable meeting. You can too. Try setting a “sleep curfew” tonight: 30 to 60 minutes before your target bedtime, turn off devices, dim the lights, and start a calming wind-down ritual. This could include reading, stretching, or meditating—anything that helps signal to your brain it’s time to rest.
Make it a part of your leadership toolkit: protect your pre-sleep time with the same intensity you protect your calendar. The goal isn’t just more sleep, it’s better sleep—regular, deep, and uninterrupted.
Sleep is a Strategic Advantage
Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategic advantage. By prioritizing rest, leaders can sharpen their edge, enhance decision-making, and sustain high performance over the long haul.
How are you protecting your sleep as a leader? Let’s share tips and routines in the comments.
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