Re: Shift Work and Sleep

Many people ask for my advice about tiredness and sleep probelms, resulting from working the night shift or rotating shifts…

As a matter of fact, I’ve been working shifts most of my life. I know how hard it can be, mainly at the beginning. It takes time to adjust.

When it comes to your sleep system – basically, the rules stay the same – pay attention to your body, and try to figure out the best time to go to sleep and to wake up. Avoid stimulants, and especially minimize exposure to sunlight, a few hours before bed time.

Depending on your working hours, you may be able to keep your ‘sleep time’ similar.

For example: Day shift is – 800 till 1600, night shift is 2400 till 800. You can sleep every day from 1700 to 2300, no matter which shift you work. It may sound weird, and it wouldn’t fit for anybody, but for some people it could be the best option.

You may be asking: “If I don’t work at night, what will I do with myself?” Well, many people find what to do with themselves when they’re up all night. I know I do. For example: I write this post!

The best advice I could give on this matter is this…

If you have to work nights anyway, try to stick to the night shift.

Yes, I know working nights sounds depressing, and it does have it’s flaws. But when I had to choose between rotating shifts and working only nights – I chose the latter. Trust me – you get used to it pretty quickly. Besides – the night shift has it’s own advantages. Those are different from one job to another, but in most cases, the night shift is basically, how shall I say this – calmer.

Note: The End Tiredness Program comes with a comprehensive report about shift work and sleep as a bonus.