An "always on" work style may make you less responsible than you thought. Here's the Centered Leadership summary:
Being able to manage energy is core to being a Centered Leader, but how many of us have been guilty of checking email on our phones just before going to bed? According to new research coming out of Michigan State University, people who monitored their smart phones for business purposes after 9 p.m. (as distinct from computers or laptops) were more tired and less engaged at work the following day.
The researchers had a couple of theories that could explain the phenomenon. The first revolves around "ego depletion" - we only have so much attention we're capable of giving and need alone-time to recharge. Missing that crucial rest period in the evening results in less focus and more lethargy the next day.
Their other hypothesis is that smartphones disrupt sleep. Many of us sleep with them next to our heads, so when they buzz or light up with new messages, they defer our dreams and REM cycles. Lack of sleep also contributes to lower glucose levels and metabolic rates in the brain's prefrontal cortex, an area linked to self-control.
So tonight, turn your phone off early, you'll feel better in the morning!
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(Thanks, Grace)
