I’m interviewing for a night shift position in a couple days and I’ve always worked 8-4 or 9-5. I’m a little scared of the idea though! I’m worried about seeing my family less because my sleep schedule will be totally different than theirs.
So, night shift workers of the world, what has your experience been like and how do you manage being present in your family life?
I’ve been on nights for 4.5 years now. It -can- be tough, but honestly it’s pretty frickin awesome if you follow these rules.
Black out curtains in your bedroom. You might have to double or triple them, just make sure there’s not a single drop of light in your bedroom.
A box fan. I have a big fan and don’t hear anything when trying to sleep. You can also use white noise videos on YouTube but a fan is definitely more efficient at blocking noise.
Don’t drink caffeine after you start your shift. This’ll make it easier to fall asleep after.
Keep a consistent sleep schedule even on your days off. Flipping back and forth will absolutely make you miserable! I learned that the hard way.
Don’t let people pressure you into doing stuff during your sleeping time just cuz you’re at home. Ive read some horror stories about ppl literally just not understanding that you need to sleep still lol. Do Not Disturb mode is your friend. Or just keeping your cell phone in a different room during sleeping time.
I’m not sure that night shift should make it harder to spend time with family honestly. I guess it depends on your schedule. But, I work 10pm to 6am. I go to bed at 7am or 8am and wake up at 3pm. That’s basically when day shifters usually are at work or school? And then there’s 7 hours to do whatever until I gotta go back to work.