It can be a challenge trying to adapt to a new shift schedule at work. Some employers require their workers to change shifts and work varying hours. Starting a new shift may be exciting for some people, but it means that you must make changes to your personal and social life, as well as to your commitments at home. Adapting to a new shift also means that your body must go through a transition period and adjust to your new work hours. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to successfully adapt to a new shift schedule.
Instructions
1. Decide what changes you need to make in your personal and social life. For example, you may have to rearrange doctor's appointments, find a babysitter for the kids or change the time you exercise and/or work out at the gym. Determine what changes need to be made and create a new schedule around them.
2. Establish a new bedtime and get enough sleep. In order to properly adapt to a new shift schedule, it is important that you allow yourself enough time to get plenty of rest before going to work. Many people need around seven to eight hours of sleep in order to function the next day. You should already know how many hours of sleep your body needs, so strive to get an adequate amount of sleep every night or day and stick to that routine.
3. Perform relaxation techniques or exercises before going to bed. Engaging in relaxation exercises before going to sleep can actually help you sleep a lot better. This is especially beneficial for those who are having a difficult time falling asleep at their new bedtime. Try engaging in meditation or yoga-related activities, take a warm bath or listen to soft music before going to bed.
4. Inform your family, friends and neighbors of your new schedule. Be sure to tell everyone you know about your new work hours and ask them to respect your new schedule. You can call themindividually or send out an email with the details.
5. Give yourself time to adapt to your new shift schedule. Not everyone adapts to a new schedule overnight. It may take a few days, a couple of weeks or even a month to become fully adapted to your new shift schedule. So be patient and give yourself a little time to become accustomed to these changes in your life.
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