Better Sleep, Better Finances?

The health effects of not getting adequate sleep can include less mental clarity, impaired judgement, weight gain and health issues. However, recent findings suggest that sleep-deprived individuals may be more likely to make poor financial choices as well.

According to a report by Ebates. com, over 90 percent of Americans admit to using shopping as a pickme-up. Most often emotional triggers motivate individuals to shop. Researchers at George Mason University recently revealed that better-rested individuals are more likely to display better self-control, ability to delay gratification and capacity to resist emotions and temptations - three triggers that are widely reported among those who choose retail therapy as a means to feel better. And some individuals may not even be aware of the sleep they are lacking. The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) reports that more than 18 million Americans have sleep apnea, which causes troubled breathing during sleep. In addition, the NSF adds that 75 percent of people with sleep apnea aren’t aware that they have it. Could lack of sleep be affecting your wallet? If you think it may be, here are a few tips that might help you:

• Manage stress by getting organized, setting priorities and not taking yourself too seriously. Take a break to laugh with a friend, enjoy a funny movie or just look at the bright side.
• Reinforce your body’s sleep-wake cycle by going to bed and getting up at the same time each day, even on days when you do not need to get up for work.
• Make sure that your room is ideal for sleeping. Try not to watch TV in bed and turn off your mobile devices if possible. Choose a mattress and pillow that feel comfortable to you and create an environment that relaxes you and is conducive for your needs.
• Try to avoid going to bed either hungry or too full. It would be wise to avoid nicotine, caffeine or alcohol before bedtime as well.