How to Have a Normal Life and Work the 3rd Shift
Some people work third shift for the extra money, while others work it so one parent can always be home with the child. Others simply prefer to work during the nighttime hours. However, living a normal life when you work a third-shift job does not come as easily as when you work on the other shifts, especially if you are new to third shift. On average, third-shift employees work between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. depending on the job. Because you will be working when many other people are sleeping, you need to find other times to sleep and complete other necessary daily tasks.
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Instructions
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Establish a sleep schedule as soon as possible. Some third-shifters do best sleeping right after work, while others prefer to sleep in the afternoon and early evening before work. Choose one option and maintain that schedule, even on your days off, because your body requires a consistent schedule. Use room-darkening shades in your bedroom to help make it dark so you can sleep better.
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Eat regular meals. Even if you don't take your meals at the same times as everyone else, it is important to eat three meals a day. Take healthy snacks with you at work to help keep your energy up at night, especially when you first start working third shift.
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Schedule events with your family and friends during your awake times whenever possible. You can still make exceptions for important family events, but do your best to maintain your sleeping schedule.
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Tell your family and friends when you will be available for phone calls. It can be difficult to maintain contact with those who work during the day when you work third shift, but it can be done. During your sleep times, turn your phone off so calls don't disrupt your sleep.
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Spend time with others who work the same shift as you. Those who work third shift will be on a similar schedule and can relate to your experiences. You will meet new friends and have someone to go out with during the day while the rest of your family and friends are working.
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Exercise frequently to help keep your body in shape. When you work third shift, it is easy to sit home and rest for most of the day. Go out for a walk when you get home in the morning or in the evening after a meal. Spend some time at the gym several times a week. Exercise is important to staying healthy while working third shift.
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Tips & Warnings
If you do adjust your sleeping schedule for a special event, make sure you get the same amount of sleep to provide as much consistency as possible.
References
Resources
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