Sleep Procrastination Ends Now: How to Stop Putting Off Bedtime
How many times this week have you chosen to catch up on your emails right before bed or used that time to begin scrolling through social media? We’re all guilty of it, right when it’s time to settle down, we suddenly have the energy of five toddlers and are ready to do anything but sleep. Sleep procrastination is a real thing, and it’s incredibly common. Here are 4 simple ways to end your sleep procrastination habits and get to bed.
1. Stop procrastinating during the day
Procrastination tends to breed more procrastination, meaning if you put off getting things done during the day, chances are you're going to put off sleeping at night because you're finally getting to those items on your 'to do' list. Want to put a stop to your sleep procrastination? Prioritize the things you really want to get done during the day and actually do them. Not only will this help you feel productive and motivated, but it will keep you from working right up until bedtime which can increase stress and anxiety, making it difficult to fall asleep.
2. Set an alarm one hour before bed
Set aside a window of time (approximately 1 hour), that’s solely dedicated to preparing for bed. So, if you want to be in bed by 10:30, set an alarm for 9:30 and once that alarm goes off, no more working, list-making, email checking, or social media perusing, or doing anything that can lead to increased stress or anxiety. During this window of time, focus on winding down and relaxing.
3. Ditch the technology
During your set window of time, make it a point to stay away from your phone, laptop, tv, etc. Not only does the use of technology before bed affect the quality of your sleep, but it also acts as a distraction.
4. Set a routine
Whatever you choose to do in your pre-bedtime window, you want to focus on helping your body prepare for bed by getting into a routine. Try reading a book, taking a bath, listening to calming music, taking a slow walk to clear your head, or doing some stretches. Whatever it is, try to maintain some sort of consistency. This will not only help you wind down, but will also help tell your body that bedtime is coming soon, making it easier for you to fall asleep, and making sleep procrastination less likely.
A good night’s sleep is crucial for your body to function properly and optimally. Do tomorrow’s you a favour and stop procrastinating when it comes to sleep.
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