Recently, I went through a period where I had chronic insomnia and for more than a week was unable to sleep more than 3-4 hours per night. We all know that sleep is necessary for you mental, physical and emotional health, so ultimately my lack of sleep was affecting ever area of my life. It took me awhile to figure our why the insomnia was so out of control, I occasionally deal with insomnia, but this was starting to get out of control. I realize that I needed some rest.
I had to realize that I had been pushing myself, the entrepreneur life is hard. Up early, late nights, hours in front of the computer or writing, emails, phone calls, webinars, learning, developing content, you name it. Then there are the life things that you have to do, cook, clean house, run errands, an entire set of different obligations. You can lose track, you can lose focus and you can lose sleep.
Not only that, when I would get in bed, the thoughts and the ideas kept coming. I can do this, I should do that, that would be a great workshop idea. Then there were the worries. I need to make sure that this is paid and that gets paid and did I remember to turn off the kitchen lights. The stream of thoughts were endless. And again there was no sleep.
Finally I decided that it was time to put my foot down. Not only did I need some sleep I also needed a day off. A few weeks ago I decided that I would let Sunday be rest day. That I would move the writing that I typically reserved for Sundays to throughout the week. However on Sundays I also cook, deep clean and shampoo my hair, so much for rest on Sunday. I was attempting to schedule minimal work for the last two weeks of the year. It was going to be my ‘vacation’, but the way my lack of sleep was set up I realized if I didn’t do something immediately, there would be serious consequences.
So during the week I took a day where I just sat on the couch, watched some TV, read a little, just allowed my body, soul and spirit to relax. And it felt good. I realized that in my haste to build and grow my business and my brand, I was starting to neglect myself. I was starting to neglect the thing that meant the most to me. ME. I even ordered take-out and just sat and did not think about work. I have to add that I did check a few emails. However, other than that it was essentially a ME day and I do not apologize for it.
After just spending some time recharging, I was about to go to bed that night and really get some sleep. I slept more than 4 hours, I didn’t have to fight my trail of thoughts and I slept restfully and peacefully. I cured my chronic insomnia and honestly, I felt much better, more energized and I was even able to put some coherent thoughts together.
I had to remind myself that rest is important. We can’t use our cell phones forever without ever recharging the battery. We can’t use our minds and bodies without recharging them either. It is vital to remember that no matter what we do or how important we think the next project or proposal is we still need to rest. Rest allows us to present a better version of ourselves and our work.
So I just want to remind you to make sure to take some time for you. Don’t let business or the pursuit of your dreams interfere with your ability to rest. Rest is important and serves as an opportunity for your to recharge and an opportunity to provide a fresh perspective. There is no value in overworking yourself, as a matter of fact, that often leads to sickness and ill health. Take control of your health and well being today. Get some rest. Don’t forget about you.
Dr Sharice 