As Americans, we live in a supercharged society where energetic activity always seems to take precedence over the simple common sense awareness of our basic need to get enough sleep. In fact, our active lives can be so enticing, so interesting that we get to the point where we actually begrudge the need to slow down and simply - get enough sleep.

Consider for a moment some of the negative results of a constant habit or way of life where you never get enough sleep: there is a malfunctioning of the brain; reaction time slows down; ability to focus attention is impaired; your memory lapses and your ability to think creatively suffers; you feel drowsy and you lack good judgement in both minor and critical situations.

Studies have shown that most adults require six to eight hours sleep in every twenty-four hour day. That is about one-third of our entire lives. It has also been demonstrated that people who get enough sleep are more productive and happier than those who do not get enough sleep. In short, the people who decide to be well-rested by getting enough sleep, are the people who become more productive as well as much better companions with family, friends and business associates.

Therefore, when you stop, or pause long enough to think about sleep, and it's many benefits, you'll soon realize sleep is just as important to your overall health as exercise, prayer and eating the right food.

Let me give you a personal example: As a creative person, I find myself in the role of one who is constantly thinking about, coming up with and generating brand new ideas. Because my waking hours are so interesting and exciting I used to think sleep was a waste of time. There was a time when I almost hated to go to bed. The result of my lack of sleep was that my work suffered, and my good ideas became fewer and fewer. Then, very gradually, by trial and error I must admit, I became aware of the many benefits of proper sleep habits. Now, I find that some of my most creative thoughts come to me while I am - you guessed it - sleeping. When I am asleep, I'm relaxed. That is when my creative subconscious thoughts can intertwine and mingle with my conscious thoughts with no effort on my part. Amazing!

Thinking is always hard work but when I am fresh and rested, after a good night's sleep my thoughts are usually clear and right on target.

So, if you want to live a more productive, happier life you need to pay attention to the many benefits that can be yours during the hours you invest in getting the right amount of sleep. It is a fact that rather than being a waste of time, time spent sleeping can be some of the most productive hours of your whole life.

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