by Kas Kunz
You really put in the hours and push, push, push... to make things happen in your business. You have the endurance to keep going — right? With market conditions you just have to stay on top of things!
In fact, you find yourself at times not being able to concentrate and take in what others are saying, there are moments when you're a little incoherent in your speech... realizing all you've accomplished in the last hour is to stare, because mentally you're sluggish... and you have this odd sensation your head is bobbing... sound familiar?
Karen Dillon, the Deputy Editor at Harvard Business Review, wrote a post on the HBR Editor's blog, about the myth of the tireless leader. Her points below are ones to give some serious thought to and how it's affecting your ability to have a successful business.
- Unfortunately, the myth of the tireless leader is just that--a myth. The ugly truth about sleeplessness is that it's linked to obesity, diabetes, depression and, yes, increased mortality. Forgoing sleep doesn't make you a hero. It makes you ineffective.
- In fact, getting that rest isn't a waste at all. They'll do better work. And you'll be a better leader for having let them sleep.
How does your personal effectiveness impact your business and a key customer — your internal customer? Who is your internal customer? — Your employees, co-workers, associates, colleagues, partners, etc.
Do you really want yourself and fellow co-workers and employees to make vital and on going day-to-day business decisions when at your least effective? Creating an internal culture of balance so your workforce can do an exceptional job is priceless. It's a marketing advantage for your business.
What are some of your experiences when 'sleep deprived' decisions were made?
