Ah, the sneaky time change from Daylight Savings to Standard Time! It can throw off our internal clocks and leave us feeling a bit disoriented. Suddenly, we find ourselves waking up and starting our day in daylight instead of darkness, or feeling like the day has slipped away faster than usual. Do you ever catch yourself getting to your desk earlier or working later simply because of this time change?

I know firsthand the feeling. Just yesterday, I found myself in a similar situation. I sat down at 6:30 am, fully intending to start my workday, and before I knew it, it was already 5:30 pm. Throughout the day, I had only taken a couple of quick breaks to use the restroom and grab a bowl of gumbo from the fridge for lunch. The time seemed to slip away unnoticed as I remained engrossed in my tasks. I really love my job, but it’s remarkable how easily the combination of a disoriented schedule and a dedicated work mindset can lead me to lose track of time.

While it’s natural to experience some adjustments during this transition, it’s important to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the Daylight Savings to Standard Time switch without sacrificing your well-being:

Gradual Adjustment:

Instead of abruptly changing your sleep routine, try gradually shifting your bedtime and wake-up time by 15 minutes over a few days before the time change. This can help your body and mind adjust more smoothly.

• Personally, I find this a challenge because alarm clocks have never been my friend, but I keep trying anyway.

Optimize Natural Light:

• Take advantage of the available daylight during your workday. If possible, position your workspace near a window or go for a brief walk outside during breaks to soak up some sunlight. Natural light can help regulate your body’s internal clock and boost mood and productivity.

I’m fortunate that I work remotely and can put my desk anywhere. I know not everyone has this situation. That’s where the brief walks can be helpful.

Establish Consistent Routines:

Stick to your regular daily routines, including meal times, exercise, and relaxation. Maintaining consistency can provide a sense of stability and help your body adjust to the time change more effectively.

• I find routines helpful and try to do the exact same thing in the morning, if only because my cat decides that being fed is on the top of his agenda.

Practice Sleep Hygiene:

Prioritize quality sleep by creating a conducive sleep environment. Minimize exposure to electronic devices before bed, ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and consider relaxation techniques like meditation or reading to help you unwind.

• This one is easier to preach than practice. My phone is always within arm’s reach, serving as both my alarm clock and a constant source of notifications. I use the focus feature on my phone to set “do not disturb” during specific evening hours. It helps to minimize distractions and silences notifications during crucial sleep times. I no longer feel the incessant urge to pick up my phone every time it dings.

Set Boundaries:

As the days may feel shorter, it’s crucial to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid the temptation to overcompensate for perceived lost time by working excessively. Instead, set realistic work hours and dedicate time for self-care, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.

• If I ever master this one, you will be the first to know.

Remember, adjusting to the switch from Daylight Savings to Standard Time may take a few days or even weeks, but being mindful of your work-life balance can help you navigate through this transition with greater ease and well-being. I’m going to keep trying.

🌟 How do you manage your schedule and maintain a healthy work-life balance during the switch from Daylight Savings to Standard Time? Let’s support each other! ⏰🌞💪

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This article was originally posted on LinkedIn