[ExI] Which nootropics work best?

[mail at harveynewstrom.com]

John Grigg <possiblepaths2050 at gmail.com> wrote,
> My recommendation to Max and everyone is to get a GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP.

I second this.  Reviewing the literature shows that sleep restores
memory and cognitive function much more effectively than any nootropic. 
We know that the effect of sleep deprivation and the speed at which
sleep restores function is extremely dramatic.  We know that even minor
disruptions to sleep quantity or quality have dramatic measurable
effects on performance.  Most nootropics show only a few percent
improvement.  And many of these are within the possible range of the
placebo effect.

Therefore, I have endorsed a new theory for my personal life in the past
few years:
- If the alarm clock always wakes me up, I am not getting enough sleep.
- I now schedule 9 hours for sleep and almost always wake up refreshed
before the alarm clock goes off.
- I feel like I am more effective and have a better attitude when I am
better rested.
- I now believe that boredom, tedium, and frustration at work are really
symptoms of a lack of mental energy.  Being more completely rested
allows me to develop more interesting solutions, finish projects
quicker, and more willingly spend more energy facing distractions.

Nootropics might provide a few percentage points of increased
effectiveness.  But they pale in comparison to sleep, exercise, and
basic nutrition in my experience.

--
Harvey Newstrom, Security Consultant, <www.HarveyNewstrom.com>
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