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The Surest Path to Success? Get Some Sleep. Take these habits to heart for a good night's rest.

By Nina Zipkin

entrepreneur daily

Sleep makes us healthier, more productive and less stressed. But when starting a new business, it seems like sleep is the least important thing on a serious to-do list.

The reality is that not getting enough sleep is only a detriment to your success, especially when your brain is too tired to make major decisions. Keep these sleep habits in mind when you're working to launch your company.

Related: A Device to Help You Sleep Better Raises Almost $500K in Two Days on Kickstarter

  • Give the bar a wide berth. Avoid drinking alcohol for about three hours before you go to bed.
  • Turn your phone off. Phones, tablets and computers should be shut down ahead of hitting the hay. The gadgets will only keep your brain feeling wired. Read a book or magazine instead
  • Keep a journal. Starting a company is a stressful time, so write out anything that's bothering you.
  • Create a soothing atmosphere. Ocean sounds, cool room, comfortable pillows -- whatever helps you relax.
  • Go for a run. Exercise is key in creating healthy sleep patterns and helps regulate your body rhythms.
  • Sorry, no sugar. A snack with protein and fat before bed will help you sleep better -- a sugar high and subsequent crash will only disrupt your rest.
  • Let there be light. Once you get up, bask in the sun and orient yourself for the day.

For more sleep tips, check out the video above.

Related: The Beginner's Guide to Getting Better Sleep

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

Nina Zipkin is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com. She frequently covers leadership, media, tech, startups, culture and workplace trends.

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