A study published by the Rotterdam School of Management has found that just one night’s bad sleep can cause erratic and disruptive behaviour at work. So, if your co-worker is being grumpy or you find yourself snapping at your boss; ask yourself whether a lack of sleep is to blame.
And it’s not just at work that relationships suffer because of a lack of sleep. From snapping at the kids to arguing with your partner, it’s all too easy to be short tempered when you’re feeling tired.
So, if you want to improve relationships with loved ones and colleagues, a good place to start could be to get a good night’s sleep. But that’s often easier said than done. If you find it hard to switch off, here are some tips that could help:
- Stick to a set bedtime, even at weekends, and avoid long lie-ins
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugar in the evenings and try to eat your last meal at least two hours before going to bed to avoid indigestion
- Cut out afternoon naps, otherwise you might not feel sleepy at bedtime
- Avoid using gadgets or technology in the hour before bedtime
- Make sure your bedroom is comfortable, at the right temperature and free from clutter
- Get fresh air and exercise during the day to boost your natural sleep rhythms
- Take time to unwind before bed – take a bath, meditate or read a book
If you don’t have problems with sleep but those around you are grumpy, perhaps keep out of their way when you suspect a lack of sleep is the problem. Try to feel sympathetic rather than starting an argument.
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