If you’re longing for better sleep and you’re in the corporate world: Then you may be suffering from what we know as Sunday Scaries.

We’ve all been there. It’s Sunday night, and instead of drifting off to sleep, you’re tossing and turning, your mind racing with thoughts about the upcoming work week. Deadlines, presentations, difficult conversations, overflowing inboxes – they all come flooding in, stealing your precious rest and leaving you feeling anxious and exhausted.

The inability to fall asleep due to anxiety, regret, or dread about the workweek is a common issue, and it can have a significant impact on your well-being and performance. When your mind is consumed with worries and “what ifs,” it’s nearly impossible to find the peace and quiet needed for restful sleep. You toss, you turn, you check the clock, and the cycle of anxiety only intensifies.

The Sunday night insomnia

• Exhausted and drained: Lack of sleep impairs your cognitive function, making it harder to focus, make decisions, and be productive.
• Irritable and reactive: Sleep deprivation can make you more irritable, short-tempered, and emotionally reactive.
• Anxious and overwhelmed: The anticipation of a stressful week can trigger anxiety and make it even harder to relax and unwind.
• Vulnerable to illness: Chronic sleep deprivation weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.

Understanding the Root Cause

To break free from this cycle of Sunday night anxiety and reclaim your sleep, it’s essential to understand the root cause of your worries.

Ask yourself:

• What specific aspects of the upcoming week are causing you stress? Is it a looming deadline, a difficult conversation, a challenging project, or a fear of failure?
• Are there any recurring patterns or triggers that contribute to your anxiety? For example, do you tend to overcommit, procrastinate, or have difficulty setting boundaries?
• Are there any underlying beliefs or fears that are fueling your anxiety? For example, do you believe that your worth is tied to your productivity, or that you need to be in control of everything?

While seeking support from a leadership coach can help you gain clarity and challenge your perspectives, it’s also important to prioritise self-care and well-being. Consider practicing relaxation techniques, setting boundaries, and engaging in activities that promote a healthy work-life balance.

Taking steps toward better sleep and a healthier mind can contribute to your overall well-being and effectiveness as a leader.

Maybe the key to getting better sleep is reconnecting with the present moment?

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