I average 4 hours of sleep a night. I average 1 migraine every 2 weeks. Study results are still out, but I’m beginning to suspect a correlation. I was averaging 2 migraines a week until I conceded defeat and started taking a nap after work to try to make up for that sleep deficit. If you work for a large company in the US and aspire to success, you’re likely suffering sleep deprivation as well. It’s all too common here and linked to everything from weight gain, elevated accident rates and a multitude of health problems. The advice is always the same - get more sleep. I liken it to a doctor advising you take it easy, reduce your stress and take some vacation right in the middle of a critical time-crunch at the office. Great idea, Doc. I’ll get right on that!
The sad truth is that too many of us sacrifice ourselves in the pursuit of a successful career and, all too often, it isn’t selfish stupidity. From supporting a family to preparing for the next market bust, accounting scandal or over-taxed social security system, many Americans feel they have no choice but to push themselves, quite often, into an early grave.
So if it simply isn’t practical to reduce your stress or go on a vacation, let me recommend a nap. Tell your family to leave you alone for an hour. Unplug the X-box and force the kids out of the house. Then find yourself a nice sunbeam and catch a snooze. You might not be able to recover all the sleep you lost but in lieu of a day at a spa, it’s at least one little way you can be kind to yourself.