Buzz
It might seem hard to believe, but sleep is a highly divisive issue. Many are conflicted between medical recommendations of 8 hours nightly and opinions from figures like Steve Harvey, who claim that sleeping 8 hours a day hinders success.
Regardless of your stance on sleep, there are undeniable advantages to proper rest. It strengthens your immune system, enhances cognitive function, lowers stress levels, and uplifts your mood. The wealthy and famous often adopt unique methods to optimize their sleep. Here are 10 unusual sleep habits practiced by the rich.
10. Michael Phelps Uses an Elevation Chamber for Sleep
Estimated Net Worth—$80 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Michael Phelps, an Olympic Gold Medalist, has won 28 medals, including 23 golds. This is an extraordinary achievement in any sport, making him the most decorated Olympian in history.
His unique sleep routine could be a key factor in his success. Phelps uses a chamber that simulates an altitude of around 9,000 feet, training his body to adapt to lower oxygen levels by boosting red blood cell production. This adaptation enhances his endurance and oxygen efficiency during competitions.
Is it worth it?
While this method appears more suited for athletes, its effectiveness is evident in the growing trend of altitude training.
9. Leonardo da Vinci Practiced Extreme Power Napping
Estimated Net Worth—$1.5 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
He is likely the second most renowned Leonardo, especially since DiCaprio rose to fame. Leonardo da Vinci excelled in numerous fields, including painting, invention, mathematics, engineering, and architecture. While he is celebrated for his fame, his wealth during his lifetime was modest. Nevertheless, he created masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Salvator Mundi, the latter selling for an astonishing $450 million in 2017.
Da Vinci followed a unique sleep pattern, taking 20-minute naps every four hours. This equated to just two hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. For many, a two-hour nap would be the absolute minimum.
Is it worth it?
Not at all! While Da Vinci thrived on this extreme polyphasic sleep pattern, most people would struggle to maintain it for any significant period.
8. Marissa Mayer Sacrifices Sleep for Quarterly Getaways
Estimated Net Worth—$600 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Marissa Mayer, the former CEO of Yahoo!, currently serves on Walmart’s board. As one of Google’s earliest employees, she played a pivotal role in the search engine’s initial triumphs.
Mayer is a dedicated workaholic, sleeping only four hours nightly while clocking 130-hour workweeks. To compensate, she takes quarterly breaks, disconnecting entirely from work and ensuring eight hours of sleep each night during these periods.
Is it worth it?
While Mayer’s success is undeniable, her reliance on a support team to handle slip-ups is notable. For instance, an interview with Inc. revealed she once missed a crucial executive dinner due to falling asleep. This approach might not be ideal, Mayer. Just a thought.
7. Matt Mullenweg Incorporates Six Sleep Sessions Into His Daily Routine
Estimated Net Worth—$450 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Matt Mullenweg, co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, is a strong proponent of open-source software. He has significantly contributed to projects like b2evolution and BuddyPress.
Mullenweg adheres to a unique sleep routine, taking six 40-minute naps daily. He claims this approach provides the benefits of a full night’s sleep without losing productive hours.
Is it worth it?
This represents another instance of an extreme polyphasic sleep pattern that may suit certain individuals but is unlikely to be maintainable over time.
6. Indra Nooyi Gets By on 4 Hours of Sleep Daily
Estimated Net Worth—$90 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Indra Nooyi, the CEO of Pepsi, has dedicated over 12 years to the company. In 2018, Forbes ranked her as the eighth most powerful woman in the world.
Nooyi adheres to a monophasic sleep pattern, resting for just four hours each day. This routine maximizes her productivity during her active hours.
Is it worth it?
While Nooyi ranks among the world’s most influential women, it’s uncertain whether her sleep habits directly fuel her success. Her exceptional time management skills might be the key.
5. Nikola Tesla Survived on 2 Hours of Sleep Daily
Estimated Net Worth—$100. Yes, only $100.
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor and engineer, is renowned for his groundbreaking work in the electricity sector. He is credited with inventing the AC motor and developing the Tesla coil.
Similar to Leonardo Da Vinci, Tesla slept only two hours daily. He claimed this gave him more time for thinking and experimentation. However, unlike Da Vinci, Tesla made several poor decisions, leading to his mental and financial ruin—earning him fame but not fortune.
Is it worth it?
No, Tesla’s sleep habits serve as a cautionary tale. Despite his brilliance, his sleep deprivation likely played a role in his eventual decline.
4. Tom Cruise Rests in a “Snoratorium”
Estimated Net Worth—$600 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Tom Cruise is a globally renowned actor, starring in blockbuster hits such as the Mission Impossible series, Rain Man, and War of the Worlds. He is also well-known for his affiliation with Scientology, though we’ll avoid delving into that topic here.
Cruise is said to sleep in a “snoratorium,” a soundproofed space designed to ensure uninterrupted rest.
Is it worth it?
This depends entirely on personal preference. While some require complete silence to sleep, others find it unnerving and need background noise. For me, sleeping without noise and at least two fans is impossible.
3. Rashad Jennings Rests in a Hyperbaric Chamber
Estimated Net Worth—$8 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Rashad Jennings, a former NFL running back, played for teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders, and New York Giants. He now works as a commentator and analyst for ESPN.
Jennings uses a hyperbaric chamber filled with pressurized pure oxygen to enhance his sleep quality. This method boosts oxygen intake, aids injury recovery, and improves mental clarity, according to him.
Is it worth it?
The evidence suggests it’s effective, but the $20,000 price tag makes it inaccessible for most people.
2. Dwayne Johnson Gets By on 4 Hours of Sleep Each Night
Estimated Net Worth—$320 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Can you smell what The Rock is cooking? Dwayne Johnson transitioned from a failed football career to professional wrestling, eventually becoming a successful actor and entrepreneur. He held the title of the highest-paid actor for two consecutive years.
Johnson sleeps just three to five hours nightly, allowing him to complete two intense workouts before beginning his workday.
Is it worth it?
If you have the physique and mindset of The Rock, perhaps. He describes working out as a form of meditation, which might explain how he maintains his busy schedule, happiness, and minimal sleep.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo Sleeps 7–8 Hours Daily
Estimated Net Worth—$500 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Cristiano Ronaldo, a legendary soccer player, has represented top clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. With five Ballon d’Or awards, he is regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history.
Ronaldo usually sleeps seven to eight hours daily, claiming it enhances his alertness and energy on the field. The unique aspect? He achieves this through 90-minute sleep cycles.
Is it worth it?
This appears to be the most sustainable polyphasic sleep routine. As a world-class athlete, Ronaldo’s performance likely benefits from this sleep pattern.
+ Bonus Celebrity—Eminem Requires Complete Darkness
Estimated Net Worth—$230 million
Why They Are Rich and Famous
Eminem ranks among the most iconic rappers in history, with 15 Grammy Awards to his name. He has also ventured into acting, notably starring in the film 8 Mile.
Eminem suffers from insomnia and insists on complete darkness to sleep. While most would use blackout curtains, he takes it further by covering windows with tinfoil to block all light.
Is it worth it?
Not really. You’ll likely end up with a strange-looking room and still struggle to sleep.
