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Shiftworkers be Resolute!

© Stephen Weistling

Here goes. Another New Year Resolution article about how to get a healthy start on 2005. But this time, we're focusing on the shiftworker's needs as well as healthy pursuits. In reviewing past articles, it occurs to me that we can divide these pursuits into three broad categories: Eating, Sleeping, and Social Interaction.

But why should we dredge up these ideas right now? Don't we have enough to do already? Well, I think the New Year is an excellent time to take stock and make a reasonable, moderate, and attainable effort to change something for the better. It's worth it, even if we only make one small, minor change. Just think about how that could add up if we choose one thing and stick to it each year.

So here are some ideas. Keep the target in range. It doesn't do you any good to shoot a whole box of ammo at something you can't see.

Eating:

Monitor your weight regularly, exercise daily at least by walking, and keep track of your calories. Studies have shown that people who monitor their progress are more likely to stay on course and have success.

Limit your intake of alcohol. Besides empty calories, alcohol presents a wealth of potential health problems. If you must drink, do so responsibly and moderately. In some cases, abstinence is in order.

Use caffeine wisely. By this I mean, if you're drinking caffeine on shift, try to drink it early on so that it doesn't keep you awake when you get home. Too much caffeine isn't good for you anyway.

Sleeping, and/or Staying Awake:

Use caffeine wisely, for the reasons stated above.

Get some blackout shades and utilize "white noise" for your bedroom. The outside distractions may not wake you as much. Exercise at appropriate times. A few hours before you go to bed, moderate exercise will help you sleep.

To stay awake during your shift, keep lots of lights on, and play lively music.

Social Interactions:

We all need somebody. The most successful shiftworkers are those who can communicate their needs to their families and have supportive spouses and family members. Also, successful shiftworkers find time to enjoy moments of friendship and recreation with others. Make the time.

Whatever you decide to take as your resolution for the year, remember that in order to make a lasting change, it is important to choose wisely. Here is a simple model for making a successful change.

First, you must be sufficiently dissatisfied with the current condition.

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