Success Advice
Better Leaders Are Better Sleepers Here’s Why
Sleep is not a luxury but a necessity for optimal leadership performance
Business leaders are often regarded as indefatigable individuals who thrive on minimal sleep while they relentlessly pursue their dream careers. Throughout the business world, many are even admired for their tenacity and ability to work long hours. But is this lack of sleep actually contributing to higher levels of success? Studies seem not to think so.
We know a lack of sleep negatively affects other areas of our lives: from draining our cognitive abilities to making us more irritable. Then, why has the narrative of ‘you can sleep when you’re dead’ become the mantra for so many aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative thinkers? If sleep deficiency is terrible for our mental and emotional health, then it cannot be the impetus that drives business success.
The prevailing notion of the sleepless, hardworking executive is being challenged by research that indicates leaders who prioritize their rest are more energetic, efficient, and compassionate. From enhancing decision-making abilities to fostering a positive work environment, I want to talk more about the power of well-rested leadership.
The Science Behind Restful Leadership
A clinical review put out by N.F. Watson and C.M. Barnes detailed sleep’s significant contributions to effective leadership. Ineffective leadership that stems from sleep deprivation doesn’t only affect the stamina and ingenuity of leaders, it also has a direct impact on company culture and employee performance. One study that observed 88 leaders across several industries found that abusive supervision was more prominent after the leader acknowledged a poor night’s sleep the night before.
Sleep is not merely a passive state of rest, which we so often forget. It’s a dynamic process during which the brain experiences critical functions necessary for optimal functioning. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes information, and rejuvenates neural pathways. Leaders who enjoy sufficient sleep are better equipped to think critically, make sound decisions, and retain essential information. Additionally, well-restedness makes leaders better emotional regulators. This translates into greater patience, empathy, and compassion for team members, which creates a positive and supportive work environment.
Enhanced Cognitive Abilities and Creativity
Cognitive excellence and creativity are crucial for effective leadership, both of which are contingent upon being rested. A well-rested leader experiences improved focus, concentration, and problem-solving skills, which enables them to tackle challenges and devise innovative solutions with clarity and efficiency. Sleep also helps leaders think more about complex decisions and propose necessary solutions.
Sleep also plays a vital role in the creative process. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, the stage during which dreams occur, is associated with enhanced creativity. Leaders who achieve enough REM sleep are more likely to think outside the box, approach problems from different perspectives, and inspire their teams to do the same.
“Sleep is an investment in the energy you need to be effective tomorrow.” – Tom Roth
Productivity and Efficiency: Quality Over Quantity
The myth of the sleepless executive working round-the-clock is slowly giving way to a more effective approach to leadership: quality over quantity. Leaders who prioritize their sleep understand that long hours do not necessarily equate to increased productivity. In fact, in today’s competitive business landscape, making the most out of one’s working hours and effectively meeting goals is only possible when well-rested.
Studies have found that leaders who get adequate sleep report higher levels of productivity and efficiency. They can accomplish tasks faster, make more informed decisions, and communicate more effectively with their teams. In contrast, underslept leaders often experience diminished cognitive performance, leading to errors, delays, and poor judgment. By valuing their sleep, leaders set a positive example for their teams, promoting a healthier work-life balance and overall well-being.
Emotional Intelligence and Empathetic Leadership
Leadership is not solely about driving results; it is about inspiring and guiding individuals to reach their full potential. Emotional intelligence plays a vital role in fostering strong relationships and cohesive teams. Well-rested leaders have an edge in this area, as sleep profoundly impacts emotional intelligence.
Adequate sleep supports the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for emotional regulation and empathy. Leaders who prioritize their rest can better understand and respond to the emotions of their team members. This empathy creates a culture of trust, support, and open communication within the organization. On the other hand, leaders suffering from sleep deprivation are prone to emotional instability, leading to erratic behavior and strained relationships. A lack of empathy from the top can trickle down, resulting in disengaged and disheartened employees.
Sleep is not a luxury but a necessity for optimal leadership performance. Embracing a culture that values rest and work-life balance will undoubtedly lead to more energetic, efficient, and compassionate leaders, setting a new standard for success in the modern business world. The next time you find yourself contemplating pulling an all-nighter, remember that true leadership excellence begins with a good night’s sleep.
Success Advice
11 Mark Manson Lessons That’ll Redefine Success in the Digital Age
Success in the digital age isn’t about hacks, it’s about the raw, real lessons Mark Manson actually lives by.
In 2016, Mark Manson released The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, a brutally honest, thought-provoking book that redefined self-help for a new generation. (more…)
Change Your Mindset
The Secret Daily Routines Behind History’s Most Brilliant Thinkers
Uncover the daily rituals and hidden habits that powered history’s most brilliant minds to success.
Why Daily Rituals Matter
Every great achiever has one thing in common: discipline. Behind the novels, inventions, discoveries, and masterpieces are small, consistent habits repeated daily. (more…)
Did You Know
How to Turn a Simple Link-in-Bio Into a Powerful Brand Hub
Transform your forgotten bio link into a high-impact gateway that fuels engagement, clicks, and conversions across every social platform.
Social media is one of the greatest marketing tools in 2025. According to a recent study, some 86% of marketers globally use platforms like Facebook and Instagram for advertisements, while 94% use it for content distribution. (more…)
Personal Development
These 11 Habits Will Make You More Productive, Successful, and Confident
Boost your focus, confidence, and results with 11 powerful habits successful people use every day.
Successful people love to help beginners. They have an incredible work ethic and rarely complain. As a result, others naturally look up to them and want to follow in their footsteps.
But here’s the truth: there’s no success without sacrifice. You’ll need to give up comfort, excuses, and sometimes even social approval to accomplish your goals.
Value comes from solving problems, and these 11 powerful tips will help you become more productive, successful, and confident, starting today.
1. Take Short Breaks After Finishing a Task
Psychology shows it’s important to reward positive behaviour.
After completing a big task or finishing a book, take five minutes to walk, stretch, or simply breathe. This quick reset helps your brain recharge and strengthens focus.
Many great writers swear by morning walks, solitude, and reflection can unlock creativity.
But if you refuse to take breaks, don’t be surprised when burnout hits. Your brain needs recovery time just as much as your body does.
2. Schedule Your Most Important Tasks First
Multitasking kills productivity. If you want to get more done, try time blocking, a method where you dedicate set periods for specific tasks.
Productivity expert Caitlin Hughes explains, “Time blocking involves scheduling blocks of time for your tasks throughout the day.”
For example, if you’re a writer:
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Research your topic at night.
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Write your first draft in the morning (don’t worry if it’s rough).
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Edit in the afternoon, great writing comes from rewriting.
You can’t buy more time. Use it intentionally and without regret.
3. Eliminate Distractions from Your Workspace
Focus is the foundation of success.
According to Inc. Magazine, it takes an average of 23 minutes to recover from a distraction. That’s nearly half an hour of lost productivity every time you check your phone.
Put your phone away. Close unnecessary tabs. And yes, limit your Netflix binges.
Meeting deadlines consistently is one of the fastest ways to stand out and earn respect.
4. Take Full Responsibility for Your Life
Entrepreneur Derek Sivers once said, “Everything is my fault.”
This mindset doesn’t mean self-blame; it means self-ownership. Stop pointing fingers, making excuses, or waiting for others to change.
If your habits (like smoking or drinking too much) hold you back, it’s time to make better choices. Your friends can’t live your dreams for you; only you can.
5. Invest an Hour a Day in Learning New Skills
Knowledge compounds over time.
Whether you read books, take online courses, or practise a craft, consistent learning gives you a competitive edge.
I used to struggle with academic writing, but I improved by studying the work of great authors and applying what I learned.
Your past doesn’t define you; your actions do. Every new skill adds another tool to your arsenal and makes you more unstoppable.
6. Develop a Growth Mindset
Psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck introduced the concept of fixed vs. growth mindset.
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A fixed mindset believes success is based on natural talent.
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A growth mindset believes success comes from effort and learning.
Choose the growth mindset. Embrace challenges. See failures as feedback. In today’s fast-moving digital world, adaptability is your biggest advantage.
7. Learn Marketing to Reach People Who Need You
I once believed marketing was manipulative, until I realised it’s about helping people solve problems.
If your work provides genuine value, marketing is how you let others know it exists. Even Apple spends billions on it.
Don’t be ashamed to promote your skills or business. Without visibility, your ideas will never reach the people who need them most.
Creative professionals who understand marketing and sales have an unfair advantage.
8. Ask Your Mentor the Right Questions
Good mentors can fast-track your growth.
While mentorship often costs money, it’s one of the best investments you can make. Great mentors don’t care about titles; they care about your progress.
If you don’t have access to a mentor yet, books are your silent mentors. Read the best in your field, take notes, and apply what resonates.
9. Build Confidence Through Action, Not Affirmations
Author Ryan Holiday once said, “I don’t believe in myself. I have evidence.”
Confidence doesn’t come from shouting affirmations into the mirror; it comes from proof. Doing hard things, keeping promises to yourself, and following through.
When you consistently take action, your brain gathers evidence that you can handle whatever comes next. That’s real confidence, grounded, earned, and unshakable.
10. Focus on Your Strengths
Your strengths reveal where your greatest impact lies.
If people compliment you on something often, it’s a clue. Lean into it.
A former professor once told me I was creative, and that simple comment gave me the confidence to go all in. I studied creativity, applied it daily, and turned it into my career advantage.
Double down on your strengths. That’s how you build momentum and mastery.
11. Identify and Challenge Your Limiting Beliefs
Your beliefs shape your reality.
For years, I believed I couldn’t be a great writer because of my chronic tinnitus and astigmatism, sensory challenges that made concentration difficult. But over time, I realised those struggles made me more disciplined, observant, and empathetic.
Your limitations can become your greatest motivators if you let them.
Avoid shortcuts. Growth takes time, but it’s always worth it.
Final Thoughts
Becoming productive, successful, and confident isn’t about working harder than everyone else. It’s about working smarter, consistently, and intentionally.
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Start small: take a break after your next task, schedule your priorities, or spend one hour learning something new.
Every habit you change compounds into long-term success. Remember, true change comes from practising new behaviours.
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