Put down your to-do list and go to sleep!
It seems to always feel as though there are not enough hours in the day. I can always think of one more thing I need to get done for work, one more project around the house I want to finish or one more TV show I want to catch up on. I often need to remind myself to slow down, and prioritize my well-being first.
It does not make sense to overwork ourselves after all. Research shows that we get more done and produce higher quality work when we are refreshed after giving our minds a reset. We are the best versions of ourselves after a great night’s sleep that allows us to feel recharged and motivated. That means sometimes we need to put down the to-do list, and get into bed for some much-needed relaxation instead.
Writing a to-do list can help reduce stress and have a positive impact on our sleep when we know how to make one the right way and when to put it down. Making a list of tangible tasks that need to get done helps us to put our mind at ease before bed. Rather than lying there staring at the ceiling thinking of all the things we need to do tomorrow, our mind will benefit from putting it all down on pen and paper, and having an actionable plan for tomorrow - after we get a great night’s rest.
Here are a few hints at how to write a great to-do list:
Reflect on your worries and also what you are grateful for
Write down everything that is stressing you out and also what gratitudes you have. This allows us to reflect on not only what still needs to be done so we do not forget, but allows for some positivity to remind us of all the great things we have achieved.
Focus on one day at a time
Do not build out a to-do list for a month or even a week at a time. This can cause us to feel more overwhelmed and have the opposite effect of what a to-do list is made for.
Write down small achievable tasks
Make realistic goals for yourself for each day. Writing down 10 small tasks that we can achieve in a day makes us feel more accomplished than writing down 3 large tasks that may not get done. Staying focused and writing down small, specific goals is the best way to manage your daily to-dos.
When it is time to put down the to-do list and rest your mind and body, the Sleepsmart Down Alternative Mattress Pad from Pottery Barn is a great way to easily transform your entire sleep environment with just one product. Fresh Zone technology works to eliminate odor and keep you cool and refreshed all night long. The allergen barrier weave is breathable, yet resists dust and pet dander from entering into your bedding. 37.5™ embedded in the fabric uses naturally derived fibers that work continuously to trap heat when cold, or evaporate excess humidity when warm before sweat can form.
When you are feeling overwhelmed, give yourself permission to put a pause on the to-dos, go to bed, and get a great night’s sleep so you can tackle tomorrow with a positive attitude. Use to-do lists to take control of your life - but make sure you are including “get a great night’s sleep” at the top!
About Inventive Sleep® by Tracy Miller
Tracy Miller is a trusted inventor and innovator of dynamic, technology driven, and comfortable products for the home, and founder of Inventive Sleep™. Her engaging brands are found in millions of homes and hotels across the country. As a Sleep Products Innovator, Tracy is dedicated to helping people realize their dreams and goals starting with a great night’s sleep. Her reputation for combining proven and modern materials in everyday products including sheets, pillows, comforters, blankets and mattress pads, adds exciting new comfort and performance qualities consumers love to incorporate into their homes. Tracy is also the author of the weekly sleep blog Sleep Secrets and Inspirations. In it, she shares her expertise on materials research and design, and demystifies the sleep experience with an informative and fun-filled conversation on how sleep helps people with daily living, as well as some of her tips and tricks on picking your favorite products. For more information, visit www.inventivesleep.com. Sleep Tonight. Create Tomorrow.™