Sleep Like a Pro: The Nighttime Routines of Highly Successful People
Let’s get one thing straight: sleep isn’t just important for your health—it’s crucial for your success. You won’t find many high achievers cutting back on sleep, and those who have tried quickly learned the hard way. But here’s the kicker—what you do before sleep is just as important as getting enough of it.
I’ve worked with elite performers—Navy SEALs, CEOs, professional athletes—and if there’s one thing they all have in common, it’s that they’ve mastered their nighttime routine. Success isn’t just about what you accomplish during the day, but how you set yourself up the night before.
So, what do these high achievers do before hitting the sack? Let’s take a look at the nighttime routines of some of the most successful people in the world—and how you can use their strategies to sleep better, recover faster, and perform at your peak.
1. Reading Before Bed
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s greatest investors, spends 80% of his day reading. Even at night, he winds down with a book. This isn’t just any book—it’s something that stretches his mind and fuels creativity. The key to making reading part of your routine is to ditch the screens. Blue light from phones or tablets can trick your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, which messes with your sleep hormones.
If it works for Buffett, it’s worth a shot. Pick up a physical book to wind down—it’s a powerful habit that can set you up for better sleep.
2. Disconnect from Work
Successful people know when to clock out, mentally and physically. Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, prioritizes quality time with his family in the evenings and avoids work-related activities before bed. He doesn’t obsess over emails or last-minute tasks—he leaves that for the next day. Disconnecting from work stress helps your brain reset, which is crucial for both sleep and overall performance.
Take a cue from Bezos and let your mind recharge before bed. You can’t be at your best tomorrow if your mind is stuck in work mode tonight.
3. Reflect and Recharge
High performers often end their day by reflecting on their achievements. Take Benjamin Franklin—he asked himself two key questions each night: “What good have I done today?” and “What good shall I do tomorrow?” This simple act of reflection not only puts your mind at ease but also prepares you for success the next day.
Even if it’s just a mental recap, reflecting on the positives before bed can help you shift into a more relaxed, grateful state, setting you up for better sleep.
4. Consistency is Everything
Whether you’re a CEO or a Navy SEAL, consistency is key when it comes to sleep. Elon Musk, despite his demanding schedule, ensures he gets six hours of sleep every night. While it’s not the typical eight hours, what matters is that he sticks to a routine. Your body thrives on consistency, and keeping a regular sleep schedule will make a world of difference in how you feel and perform.
Find a sleep routine that works for you, and stick to it—no matter how busy your days get.
5. Ditch the Devices
The science is clear: screens before bed are a sleep killer. Arianna Huffington, who learned the hard way after collapsing from exhaustion, now swears by turning off all devices before bed. Blue light from phones and tablets suppresses melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep and get the deep sleep your body needs.
If you’re serious about improving your sleep, start by unplugging an hour before bed. Your brain and body will thank you for it.
6. Plan for Tomorrow’s Wins
One habit many successful people share is planning their next day before they hit the sack. Kenneth Chenault, former CEO of American Express, writes down three things he wants to accomplish the following day. This simple action helps you clear your mind and get organized, so you don’t lie awake thinking about tomorrow’s tasks.
By writing down your goals, you’ll not only sleep better but also wake up with a sense of direction.
How Sleep Remedy Can Help You Sleep Like a Pro
Everyone deserves great sleep, no matter how busy their day is. Most of us just need a little help unwinding at the end of the day, and that’s where Sleep Remedy comes in.
Developed by a former Navy SEAL doctor (that’s me), Sleep Remedy is designed to help your brain naturally transition into sleep. With a blend of natural ingredients that support your body’s sleep cycle, it helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer—without the grogginess the next day.
Because let’s face it—what’s the point of mastering your nighttime routine if you’re tossing and turning all night?
Sleep better, perform better, and win tomorrow with Sleep Remedy.
Now, go get some rest—tomorrow’s success starts with tonight’s sleep.
Sleep Remedy
CAPSULES
Doc Parsley’s Sleep Remedy is a natural sleep aid, formulated with a blend of calming nutrients to help you fall asleep faster and improve your sleep quality. Doctor-developed and recommended, it’s non-habit forming and safe for daily use.