Many years ago, after late-night work and minimal sleep for a few days, I was struggling to stay alert. But there was a ton of work to be done.
So a colleague suggested taking espresso shots.
I don’t normally consume coffee or tea. But on his advice, I took two espresso shots with some ice in a glass and started sipping it.
Every time, I would take a sip, my alertness would spike. But I also noticed that my hands started shaking a bit. Though I was alert, my body and mind weren’t steady. And I was in no position to think deeply or clearly.
We have all been through phases in life when we had to manage with less sleep. And some people even abuse ADHD drugs to stay alert. But it is extremely counterproductive and dangerous.
Just because you are awake and feel alert, doesn’t mean you are thinking clearly.
There is only one hack for alertness and mental clarity: Good undisturbed sleep. Meditation also helps, but it is NOT a substitute for sleep.
If you want to be on the top of your game in life:
- Get enough sleep.
- Do a good workout.
- Meditate.
- Eat healthy.
No medication or hack can even come close.
– Rajan