Video games are dismissed as unsophisticated domains; however, they are one of the best ways to improve manual dexterity, social skills, vision, and even problem-solving skills. 

Nevertheless, we are not here to discuss how video games can boost your cognitive health and all the good that comes from video games. Because, let’s face it, while playing video games can be good for your brain and body, its addiction can cause serious problems too. From lack of sleep to exposure to a toxic gaming environment, video games also have adverse effects. 

However, it turns out that the very sleep you lose because of video games can help you improve your focus on games. Yes, when you sleep for adequate hours, you can improve your focus while playing video games. 

Remember, good sleep does not always mean going to bed on time. There are so many factors that play a significant role in deciding whether you sleep comfortably throughout the night or not. For instance, SleePare says that mattresses that don’t suit your sleep position or body could be the reason for improper sleep. 

Let’s learn how a good night’s sleep can improve you competitively in video games. 

There is no substitute for sleep 

Coffee, energy drink, alcohol, pills — nothing in the world can substitute sleep. And that is why I want to rejuvenate the body to its best conditions; sleep is the only way to achieve that. You can do all the things in the world in trying to achieve wakefulness, but in the way, you will lose productivity and time. 

Most people think that working when you feel asleep makes you more creative; however, the opposite is true. The stress levels trick your brain into thinking that you are doing things right. However, when you look with a fresh set of eyes, you will find poor work for yourself. The same is the case with video games; you keep playing, thinking that you will easily beat out the opponents. However, your underperformance is not a result of your incompetence but the lack of sleep. 

Poor Sleep Compromises Memory, Alertness, Decision Making and Problem Solving 

As a gamer, memory, alertness, decision making, and problem-solving is all you need at your bay to keep working and beat the opponents. And many studies have proved that lack of sleep affects all these factors, leading to poor performance while playing video games. But also, during studying or doing day-to-day activities. 

It is when you take the proper amount of sleep that you can be able to perform better throughout the day: 

• People aged 13-19 need at least 7-8 hours of sleep
• People aged 19-29 need at least 7 hours of sleep
• People aged 29+ need at least 8-9 hours of sleep

How Can You Improve Your Sleep Quality and Improve Competitively in Video Games? 

Now that you know all the things that could go wrong when you are suffering with lack of sleep, let’s focus on how you can improve your sleep quality and improve competitively in video games: 

•  Stick to a Sleep Schedule

One of the best things to improve your sleep is to align your circadian clock. Yes, an internal clock tells the body when to sleep and when to wake. And it is when you stick to a schedule you can avoid things like laying on the bed and not getting sleep. In case your circadian rhythm is not set. You can do that by not eating for an entire 24 hours and seeing the sun in the morning. This will awaken the internal clock in your body and allow you to sleep in the evening daily. 

• Pay Attention to What You Eat and Drink

Cut down on caffeine and smoking at least 8 hours before you go to sleep. This will reduce the cortisol levels and balances your dopamine by the time you go to bed. 

• Create a Comfortable Environment (Mattress, Pillow, Lights, Sounds, etc.)

Lights, mattresses (according to sleeping position and comfortable ones), pillows, and any unwanted noises should be properly tuned to create the perfect environment. Of course, turn off the blue screen two hours before going to the bed. 

• Take Naps, But Avoid Long Naps 

By definition, naps should not be longer than 15 minutes. It is suggested to enter the state of sleep and quickly wake your body. Remember, you don’t want to disturb your circadian rhythm by taking long naps. 

Consult Your Doctor If These Tactics Don’t Help 

A lot of people suffer from sleeping disorders. From common sleep apnea to severe insomnia, if you are not getting the proper sleep, you should consult your doctor and take proper medication to ensure a full night's sleep to help you function properly. Retain that only when you get the proper amount of sleep can you improve competitively in video games, owing to balanced levels of memory, alertness, decision-making, and problem-solving.