In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, sleep often falls victim to the many distractions and demands that compete for our attention. Some of us might find ourselves staying up late to finish that work project, socialize with friends, or simply indulge in our favorite TV shows. The question that arises is, why do we willingly sacrifice our precious sleep, even when we're fully aware of the consequences?
Sleep, the act of resting and rejuvenating, is an integral part of our daily lives. However, for many, it's treated as a negotiable, something that can be trimmed down to make way for other activities. Yet, we all know the repercussions of sleep deprivation. It leaves us feeling tired, groggy, affects our concentration, mood, and overall performance. It can lead to irritability and stress, undermining the very activities we're staying up late to enjoy.
According to a study conducted by the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine (PSSM), a staggering 48% of Filipinos do not get adequate sleep. Furthermore, a poll conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) revealed that 41% of Filipinos admit to using electronic devices right before bedtime, which can further disrupt their sleep patterns.
So, why is it that we often put off sleep, even when it's clear that we need it for our well-being? The answer lies in our mindset. We need to change how we perceive sleep. It's not an option but a requirement. Getting enough quality sleep, including the crucial Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, is as vital as following the law. Just like laws have a start and end time, so does our sleep. For adults, that typically ranges between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
To make this change, I embarked on a personal mission to prioritize my sleep. I set a bedtime of 9 PM and aimed to wake up at 4 AM (PST). I prepared myself for sleep, disconnecting from the digital world by turning off my phone's Wi-Fi. I motivated myself to rise when the alarm went off, sometimes even channeling the Green Lantern oath for an extra boost of willpower.
The results of this practice were transformative. I found myself enjoying the benefits of optimal sleep, including ample time to log my tasks, exercise, indulge in hobbies, and prepare for the day's work. The impact on my productivity, focus, motivation, and overall passion for life was striking. It's as if I had unlocked a new level of existence.
However, the real challenge isn't just experiencing a day of optimal sleep; it's about making it a consistent part of your routine. To maintain this change, I turned it into a personal challenge. Would you allow yourself to lose to a simple challenge that's so easy to complete? Of course not. It's this challenge, this shift in perspective, that can help us view sleep as a non-negotiable task, an essential deliverable that we must fulfill before the deadline. In doing so, we can unlock our true potential, embrace each day with renewed energy, and set ourselves on a path towards better health, productivity, and an overall more fulfilling life.
Comments