A growing number of adults are seeking professional sleep coaching as anxieties surrounding sleep have surged, mirroring a trend previously seen primarily with newborns and their parents. A recent Gallup poll indicated that 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a significant jump from 43 percent in 2013. Only about a quarter of those surveyed reported getting the recommended eight or more hours of sleep per night, a drop from 34 percent a decade earlier.

This sleep deficit is driving adults to seek guidance in optimizing their sleep habits, much like a team bringing in a specialized coach to improve performance. Just as a struggling quarterback might work with a coach to refine their throwing technique and decision-making under pressure, adults are now turning to sleep consultants to address their nighttime struggles. One sleep consultant, who previously focused on pediatric sleep, recognized the unmet need in the adult population and shifted her focus. "It's entirely possible to transform daytime and nighttime habits to optimize for good sleep," she stated, suggesting that, like training for a marathon, consistent effort and expert guidance can lead to improved results.

The historical perspective on sleep, often downplaying its importance, is shifting. The idea that "sleep is for wimps," as famously (though perhaps apocryphally) attributed to Margaret Thatcher, is being challenged by scientific evidence highlighting the crucial role sleep plays in overall health and well-being. This shift is akin to the evolution of training regimens in sports, where rest and recovery are now recognized as essential components of peak performance, not signs of weakness.

The rise in sleep coaching for adults reflects a broader societal recognition of the importance of mental and physical well-being, with individuals actively seeking strategies to improve their quality of life. Just as athletes analyze game film to identify areas for improvement, sleep coaching involves examining daily habits and routines to pinpoint factors that may be hindering restful sleep. The goal, ultimately, is to help individuals achieve their "dream" of waking up rested, ready to tackle the day with renewed energy and focus.