Image by Victoria from Pixabay
I have always been a night owl, but this year, I’m making sleep a top priority. In the past, I often sacrificed sleep for productivity, late-night scrolling, or just one more episode of a favorite show. But I’ve realized that getting enough rest is crucial for my health, mood, and overall well-being. Here’s why sleep is at the top of my 2025 goals and how you can prioritize it too.
The Benefits of Prioritizing Sleep
Improved Mental Health
A good night’s sleep does wonders for mental health. When I don’t get enough sleep, I feel irritable, anxious, and less able to handle stress. With more rest, I’m calmer, happier, and better equipped to face daily challenges.
Better Physical Health
Sleep isn’t just about feeling rested; it also impacts physical health. It supports immune function, helps maintain a healthy weight, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses. Prioritizing sleep is one of the simplest ways to boost overall health.
Enhanced Productivity
It might seem counterintuitive, but sleeping more can actually make you more productive. When I’m well-rested, I can focus better, think more clearly, and get more done in less time. It’s about working smarter, not harder.
How I’m Prioritizing Sleep
Setting a Consistent Bedtime
One of the first changes I’ve made is setting a consistent bedtime. Going to bed at the same time every night helps regulate my body’s internal clock. It makes falling asleep easier and ensures I wake up feeling refreshed.
Creating a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
A calming bedtime routine signals to my body that it’s time to wind down. I’ve started dimming the lights. My kids bought me an awesome Himalayan salt lamp for Christmas and that’s the only light I use. I also read or take a warm bath before bed. These activities help me relax and prepare for a restful night.
Limiting Screen Time
Screens emit blue light that can interfere with sleep. I am trying my best to put my phone away at least an hour before bed. Instead, I focus on screen-free activities like journaling or listening to sleep affirmations to ease into sleep mode.
Making the Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary
My bedroom is now a sleep sanctuary. I’ve invested in comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and a soothing fan. The goal is to create an environment that’s conducive to sleep—cool, dark, and quiet.
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay
Watching What I Eat and Drink
What I consume in the evening can affect my sleep. I’ve started avoiding caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime. Instead, I opt for eating no later than 7pm and drink chamomile tea mixed with Calm magnesium powder just before bed to help me relax.
Tips for Prioritizing Sleep
Track Your Sleep
Tracking your sleep can help identify patterns and areas for improvement. There are many apps and devices that can monitor sleep duration and quality. Seeing the data can be a motivating factor to make positive changes.
Make Gradual Changes
If your current sleep schedule is far from ideal, start small. Gradually adjust your bedtime in 15-minute increments until you reach your goal. This approach makes it easier to stick with new habits.
Related: Setting My Intentions for 2025
Prioritize Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene refers to practices that promote good sleep. This includes keeping your bedroom for sleep only, avoiding naps that are too long, and getting exposure to natural light during the day. Small changes can have a big impact.
Listen to Your Body
Everyone’s sleep needs are different. Pay attention to how you feel after varying amounts of sleep and adjust accordingly. Aim for the amount that leaves you feeling refreshed and energized.
My Two Cents
In 2025, I’m committed to making sleep a priority because it has always been a major issue for me. It’s a simple but powerful way to improve health, mood, and productivity. If you’ve been neglecting sleep, consider making it a focus this year. Start with small changes and see how much better you feel with a full night’s rest. After all, better sleep means better days ahead.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
This website may contain affiliate links, including links to products on Amazon. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect your purchase price but helps support the site at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!