It's funny how often we find ourselves tossing and turning at night, unable to fall asleep. We scroll through our feeds, watch endless videos, all while knowing deep down that these activities are keeping us awake. So here's a fun trick I've discovered that's not only helpful for falling asleep but also quite beneficial in other ways.
Instead of giving in to the groove of what the algorithm knows you'll enjoy, do something you don't really want to be doing. You heard me right; tackle that technical online course you've been avoiding, or crack open that dense book on theology you know would be good for you to read.
It sounds counterintuitive, doesn't it? But it's the exact thing that helps me fall asleep more soundly. Engaging in activities that stretch my brain, challenge my thinking, and force me to process information in ways I didn't anticipate, it tires me out. And at the end of the day, that's what I want. I want my brain to be tired so that I can sleep really well.
Most of us don't need drugs or other external aids to fall asleep. What we probably need is to challenge ourselves a little more. Engaging in tasks that push us mentally can create an information processing overload that signals our brains that it's time to shut down.
This trick might not be for everyone, but I've found it to be a productive way to end my day. Not only do I fall asleep faster, but I'm also engaging in activities that promote personal growth and development. It's a win-win situation. So next time you find yourself unable to drift off, put down the phone, and pick up that challenging task. You might just find yourself falling asleep more soundly and growing in the process.