By: Karoline Gore
We’ve all heard the age old saying: you are what you eat. A recent study published by British Journal of Health Psychology has discovered some truth in the classic cliche. The researchers found that when studying the connections between work productivity and diet with a select group of individuals, the individuals who ate more fruits, vegetables and nutritious foods were happier, more engaged, and more creative in their day to day work. Therefore, there is no question that foundation of being a good and effective leader in the business world is through positive dietary health and habits.
Start with Sleep
One of the most influential health habits on work productivity and effectiveness is sleep. In fact, adults who experience moderate to severe insomnia suffer more than 107% productivity loss when compared to their well-rested counterparts. Poor sleep is scientifically connected with a lack of productivity and work effectiveness reports the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Investing in sleep means an investment in your ability to be an effective leader in the work world.
The path to a good night’s rest doesn’t just begin with earlier bedtime and better screen time habits, however. Your daily dietary choices can also impact your sleep, argues Dr. Carl Hunt director of the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research. Choosing foods that produce or contain natural vitamins and hormones like tryptophan or serotonin can help lead to a better night’s rest and subsequently a more effective following day at work. Nutritious choices like turkey, chicken, pumpkin seeds, bananas, and dairy products are just a few of a myriad of foods that can help benefit your sleep.
Food and Productivity at Work
Now that you’ve had your good night’s rest, your food choices at work can also affect your ability to lead. The path to work leadership doesn’t just involve sleep; your dietary choices throughout the day are also linked to your productivity. Choose your foods before you’re ready to eat, and make choices that won’t result in a plummet of blood sugar advises Harvard Business Review. Small, more frequent meals or snack throughout the day can help combat the dreaded afternoon slump. In addition, stocking your desk with healthy snacks like almonds, protein bars, or apples can also help give you the boost you need to be the most effective office leader.
Healthy food and sleep habits are tied to your success of flourishing as a leader in business. Let your productivity and creativity impress the world around you by creating healthy sleep and eating habits.