Episode 570: 3 Reasons Why You Aren't Sleeping Properly

Are you trying so hard to sleep better that you're actually making your sleep worse? We're spending more money than ever on sleep trackers, apps, gadgets, supplements, and nighttime routines, yet so many people are still exhausted. The more pressure you put on getting perfect sleep, the more alert your brain can become, which is why something as simple as "counting sheep" can actually backfire. Sleep is also affecting way more than your energy. One bad night can throw off your cravings, weaken your willpower, make discipline harder, and push you toward the exact choices you were trying to avoid. And if you're relying on motivation to make good decisions after a terrible night of sleep, good luck. Your brain is already running on fumes. In this episode of Habits and Hustle, I share why obsessing over sleep may be part of the problem, how sleep quality impacts cravings and discipline, and why exercise, food, and your daytime habits may matter more than another sleep gadget. What's Discussed: (00:53) Why sleep has become the top health trend and why people are still sleeping worse. (01:18) How obsessing over sleep can actually make it harder to fall asleep. (02:22) Why counting sheep may be one of the worst things to do when you can't sleep. (03:09) How processed foods can affect sleep quality, even if you sleep the same number of hours. (04:07) Why sleep trackers, apps, and gadgets may create more stress than better sleep. (05:50) What to do when you wake up in the middle of the night and can't fall back asleep. (06:34) How one bad night of sleep can lead to more cravings and poor food choices. (08:13) Why willpower and discipline get weaker when your brain is exhausted. (09:41) Why women may need more sleep than men and why that conversation matters. (13:49) How exercise can dramatically improve sleep quality. Thank You to Our Sponsors! Magic Mind: Head over to magicmind.com/jen and use code JEN at checkout. Pique: Go to piquelife.com/jenniferrsd to get 20% off for life plus free gifts Momentous: Ready to try supplements that actually do what they claim? Head to livemomentous.com and use code JEN for 35% off your first subscription.  Therasage: Visit therasage.com and use code JEN to get 15% off your order. Your skin Prolon: Prolon is offering listeners 30% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program! Just visit prolonlife.com/JENNIFERCOHEN and use code JENNIFERCOHEN to claim your discount and your bonus gift. Find more from Jen Cohen: Website: jennifercohen.com Instagram: @therealjencohen Books: jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagements