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Inspiration

Are you getting enough shuteye?

s a thriving payments professional, you might • Set a regular bedtime. Your body will grow accus-
sometimes have so much on your plate that tomed to a set bedtime, and it will be easier to fall
you succumb to the proverbial burning the asleep than if you varied the time night to night.
A candle at both ends. Depending on your age
and overall health, this can continue for some time before • Power down your devices. For an hour before bed-
you experience the negative effects of sleep deprivation. time, avoid using your mobile phone, tablet or com-
puter. And, turn off the TV. This break from constant
Why this matters stimulation gives your body a chance to relax.

It's easy to forget how essential sleep is for proper • Don't go to bed angry. If you try to sleep with height-
functioning. Sufficient sleep helps you to think clearly, pick ened, negative emotions, you'll likely be in store for a
up new information, learn new skills, and pay attention night of tossing and turning. Express love, and apolo-
during meetings and presentations. It also contributes to gize if needed.
having a positive attitude, which goes a long way in the
life of an ISO or merchant level salesperson. • Create a restful environment. For the best quality of
sleep, your bedroom should be dark and quiet, with a
Getting the right amount of sleep helps you maintain cool temperature—and devoid of distractions like TV.
healthy cardiovascular, digestive and other systems
throughout the body; repair physical injuries; recover from • Ensure your comfort. If your mattress is too soft, too
exertion; and keep inflammation low. There's no question firm, worn out or lumpy, it will be much harder to
that sleep is essential for your body to function properly. rest easily. The same goes for pillows. Find the type
of pillow that's most comfortable for you.
For those who love working in the quiet, wee hours, this
may be difficult, but taking care of yourself in this way • Avoid daytime naps. Often, if you nap during the
day, you increase the possibility you will not be tired
can only help your payments career. And if you experience
occasional sleepless nights due to worry over events that enough to fall asleep at bedtime. This does, however,
depend on individual physiology.
took place during the day, it's imperative to establish good
sleeping habits, before the problem becomes chronic.
Sometimes you'll do everything right and still won't
What to do be able to nod off. If that happens, get out of bed, go to
another room and do something relaxing until you're
Ready for a healthy sleep boost? Here are some things that tired. Reading works for some; for others, a yoga routine
can lead to refreshing sleep night after night: does the trick.

• Don't skimp on sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours I hope these tips will help you get a good night’s sleep
per night—even more if possible. every night so you can make the most of the year ahead.

• Be careful what you eat and drink. This is particu-
larly important in the evening. Substances contain-
ing caffeine, for example, often interfere with sleep.
Overeating can interfere as well.

Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
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