A Good Laugh & A Long Sleep…

There’s an old Irish proverb that says, “A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything.” While this wisdom has been passed down through generations, its relevance remains timeless—especially in today’s fast-paced world, where well-being often takes a back seat to the demands of work and life.

In the professional world, finding a company whose values align with your own can be a transformative experience. That alignment can take many forms: belief in the product, passion for the mission, or a workplace culture that mirrors your own personal values. When these elements are in sync, work becomes more than a job—it becomes an extension of one’s identity and purpose.

As the Chief People Officer at Saatva, I have the privilege of influencing and shaping our company culture. But it would be a mistake to think that culture is built in the image of any one leader. Culture is a collective effort, shaped by the vision, actions, and values of those who have come before, those who lead today, and those who will carry it forward into the future. It is an evolving ecosystem, nurtured by every individual who chooses to be part of it.

For me, the importance of a good night’s sleep is deeply personal. Ask any mother of young children, and she will tell you that sleep is the foundation upon which everything else is built—family health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. As a mother, I have experienced firsthand how the quality of rest impacts not just the individual, but the entire household. A well-rested parent is more patient, more present, and better equipped to navigate the challenges of daily life. The same principle applies to the workplace: a well-rested employee is more engaged, more productive, and more creative.

As a former marathoner and recreational athlete, I know that sleep is critical to athletic performance. My husband is a local elite runner to this day, and in our house, we know that rest and recovery are just as important as the miles put into training. Athletes understand that peak performance is not just about pushing harder—it’s about listening to your body, allowing it to repair, and ensuring that every effort is balanced with the proper amount of recovery. This lesson applies beyond sports; it’s a fundamental truth about human performance in any arena, whether it’s business, leadership, or personal growth.

This belief in the power of rest is what drew me to Saatva, a company dedicated to providing a better night’s sleep. But beyond the product itself, I found a company that prioritizes well-being—not just in what we sell, but in how we operate. We understand that true wellness extends beyond physical rest; it encompasses mental and emotional well-being, too. That’s why we invest in initiatives that support our employees holistically, from our beautiful Viewing Rooms, to our policies and practices, to mental health resources and an emphasis on work-life balance.

The wisdom of the Irish proverb rings true in the modern workplace: laughter and rest are not luxuries; they are necessities. A culture that fosters joy, connection, and rejuvenation is a culture that thrives. When employees feel valued, when they are given the space to recharge, and when they find fulfillment in their work, they contribute to an organization that is not only successful but sustainable.

As leaders, we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to create environments where people can be at their best. That begins with recognizing that rest is not the enemy of productivity; it is its greatest ally. And if we can weave moments of laughter into our workdays as well? Even better!

This article has been reposted on LinkedIn.