The ONE Thing 1.1

You may have read my post entitled ‘The ONE Thing 1.0.’  That post talks about the significance of relationships in our lives as we age.  Well, I think there’s something that’s almost equally as important, hence this 1.1 version of The ONE Thing that you’re reading now. Like relationships, this is really important, too.

What is the 1.1 ONE Thing?  It’s SLEEP.  Yes, SLEEP.  Outside of close relationships, there is nothing more important to our health and wellbeing than getting enough sleep.  It seems like such a simple thing, but for those of you who struggle with this – and based on research, it’s most of you – you know how difficult it can be to get good, consistent, restful sleep.  Count me in that group.  I am a terrible sleeper.

If you’re in the group of folks that needs to improve sleep, try out the ideas listed below. Again, they seem simple enough, but changing your habits around sleep is tough.  Those habits are based on a lifetime of behavior that’s not the best, so it’s a lot of history to overcome. I know.  I’ve tried.  But because it’s so important and because I feel so good when I’ve had a good night’s sleep, I keep trying.  And I have made progress, so I know it’s possible.

Anyway, here’s the list.  Pick and choose what works for you, take baby steps, and give yourself grace.  Just know that creating a routine and turning off the screens are the most important items on this list.

• Create a sleep routine.  Schedule it.  Write it down.  Be consistent.
• Start your routine 30 minutes before you plan to be asleep.
• Turn off the screens.  TV.  Cell phone.  Laptop.  iPad.  All of them.  Shut them down.
• Make sure you have a comfortable, cool, quiet, dark room in which to sleep.
• Play sleep sounds or a bedtime meditation.
• Involve your partner in your plan – it won’t be helpful if you’ve just drifted off and they wake you up as they’re getting into bed.

Try it out for a few nights.  See what works for you.  Add your own steps.  And good luck!  Let me know how it goes by sending me a message via the Contact Me page.  I’d love to hear from you!