Sleep Scientists Awarded a Nobel Prize Because That’s Just How Important Sleep is

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Jeffrey C. Hall, Michael W. Young, and Michael Rosbash—three scientists who have been studying the circadian rhythm, or our internal biological clock, for decades. Their research was vital for understanding how sleep affects our health, and, mainly, performance. Optimal performance is crucial for maintaining a high level of productivity at workplaces. It’s these scientists who, at least indirectly, helped companies understand the importance of sleep.

In the past (as in about 5 years ago), it was considered a sort of badge of honor to work all day and sleep 4 hours a night. Working long hours was even considered by some to be an indication of productivity. By now, science has found overwhelming evidence that this is, in fact, not true at all. People need at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to optimally perform the following day. Corporate Business Solutions consultants recommend that small business owners and employees prioritize sleep at night to ensure personal productivity the following day.

The Nobel Prize-winning scientists also suggested a strong link between lack of sleep and poor health. Sleep deprivation is linked to increased risk for diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. We all know that cognitive performance, the ability to think and concentrate, is necessary for productivity. Lack of sleep can significantly impair a person’s cognitive performance. If your employee was up all night working on a project, his or her ability to deliver the following workday will be markedly impaired by the sleep deprivation. In other words, if you want an employee to pay attention to a project, it’s important to make sure that they have gotten a good night’s rest.

Lack of sleep is also linked to increased irritability. Small business owners sometimes spend a lot of money to design workplaces that are pleasant and contribute toward a good company culture. If the employees are sleep deprived, this won’t matter much. Even a pleasant work environment is linked to sleep.

If you are a small business owner seeking to increase productivity and employee satisfaction at work, then make sure to encourage all employees to sleep well at night.  CBS Corporate Business Solutions consultants advise not to encourage working late because nothing will harm employee performance more.