Shift Work Advice

Dealing with Shift Work: Managing Sleep and Work/Life Balance

Shift work can be a brilliant option if you’re looking for flexibility, extra hours, or a way to fit work around other commitments. Whether you’re working nights, early mornings or rotating shifts, it’s a common part of temporary work – especially in sectors like logistics, driving, warehousing and manufacturing. 

At The Best Connection, we place thousands of temporary workers into shift-based roles every week. While shift work offers great opportunities, it also comes with its own set of challenges – especially when it comes to sleep, energy levels, and keeping a healthy work/life balance. 

Here’s our advice for staying healthy, well-rested and balanced while working shifts: 

1. Prioritise a Consistent Sleep Schedule:
   Try to keep a regular sleep schedule whenever possible. If you’re on night shifts, block out daytime distractions with blackout curtains, turn off notifications, and let others know when you’ll be asleep. A consistent wind-down routine before bed (even if it’s in the morning!) can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest. 
2. Fuel Your Body 
   It can be tempting to grab energy drinks or fast food on the go, especially during long or late shifts – but what you eat has a huge impact on your energy and focus. Stick to light, nutritious meals, and try to avoid heavy or sugary foods before sleeping. Staying hydrated is equally important – especially if you’re working physically demanding roles. 
3. Use Time Off Wisely 
   When you’re working shifts, your time off might not line up with a typical 9–5 routine – and that’s okay. Use your breaks to rest, connect with friends or family, get fresh air, and recharge however suits you best. Planning ahead can help make the most of your downtime and prevent burnout. 
4. Listen to Your Body 
   Fatigue can sneak up on you when your sleep is irregular. If you’re feeling overly tired, stressed or unwell, don’t ignore it. Take regular breaks during shifts, move around when you can, and speak to your agency consultant if you feel your schedule is affecting your health. Your wellbeing comes first. 
5. Speak Up 
   At The Best Connection, we work closely with our temporary workers and clients to make sure shift patterns are safe, fair and manageable. If a role doesn’t suit your needs or a schedule becomes too difficult to manage, talk to your local branch – we’re here to help find a solution that works for you. 
6. Take Advantage of Flexibility 
   One of the benefits of temporary work is choice – you can take on shifts that fit your lifestyle, whether that’s short-term, ongoing, or weekend work. If your availability changes, we’ll do our best to match you with shifts that suit your current situation.  

Find Shift Work That Works for You 

If you’re ready to take on shift work – or looking for something more flexible to suit your lifestyle – The Best Connection can help. With a wide range of temporary roles available across multiple sectors, we’ll work with you to find opportunities that suit your needs and support your wellbeing. 

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