Those who start work early (5am shift) how do you do it?

[coffeeoclock]

Not an AIBU but need the traffic!
Start a new job on Monday, start at 5am and finish at 1pm. It's a part time role so only 16hrs per week.

How do I manage this? Currently going to bed at 2/3am! I have to wake up at 3.30 in order to get ready, eat and make my way there on time.

I can't fall asleep early at all, I'm actually thinking of exhausting myself tomorrow so I'll fall asleep by 8pm? 😂

Help me!

If you struggle start by going to bed half an hour earlier each night so you get it to a time that’s reasonable for you. It won’t help you initially but long term you will effectively reprogram your body clock. Combine this with a regular wake up time

@saltysally little sleep or being extra tired is a huge seizure trigger for me :)

@coffeeoclock okay. All the best in your job 😊

Can you do some exercise tomorrow??? That always makes me more tired.

And a fresh, clean bed to get into. Maybe a relaxing YouTube video or meditation style app. Have you heard of ASMR??? If I head up early and put an ASMR video on I am gone!!

I get up at 4am for a 5am start. I have everything set out the night before so I don't waste time looking for anything. I'm in bed by 9pm, but I don't panic if I'm not, clock watching and working how much sleep you have until you need to wake up only serves to stress you out.

I tend to wake up before my alarm goes off, then I get up straight away, splash cold water on my face before putting my tea to brew.

The key to early shifts, is to just accept it, be prepared to feel tired and even a bit queasy at first, I found it quite difficult to eat breakfast initially but as my job is very physical, I had to force myself.

My positives is that your shift will be over quite quickly and you'll still have the rest of the day to yourself afterwards. Also, it only takes 7 days to make a new habit, so you will get used to it quite fast.

Good luck and I hope it all goes well.