Surviving Overtime

So you’ve just put up 8 hours of work and it looks like you’re going to put up more until that pile of papers on your desk is finally cleared. Overtimes are not that uncommon, if you’re trying to build your way up the career ladder, overtimes are a must. But no matter how much time you add on your regular hours, if you’re sluggish and the grey matter won’t function, there’s not really much you can do. Here are a few things that could help you prepare for those extra hours of work.

Vitamins

Long hours of works saps strength. Maybe not physically, but your brain gets a mental work out that could be as stressful as any exercise. Make sure you load up on the extra nutrients to keep the body working. Not too much though, as anything could be poison if you take too much of it.

Get Some Sleep

I know, I know. The whole idea of overtime is not sleeping. But you have to go home at some point, right? When you do, take a shower and hit the sack fast. Especially if it’s a weekday and your expected at work again tomorrow. This goes double when you’re due for overtime yet again.

Take a Breather

Once in a while during overtime, take a moment to pause and pinch the bridge of your nose, just between the eyes. You could also massage you hands or the back of your neck, whatever works for you. Take slow deep breaths, clear your mind and then start again. This would work really well with a few gulps of your favorite coffee.

To Power Nap or Not to Power Nap

The effectiveness of a powernap sometimes depends on the person doing it. There are those who only feel disoriented after a short nap and then there are those who revitalized. The choice is really up to you. If you’re a power nap person, then go ahead. But for those who don’t, stretching your legs or closing your eyes for a few minutes will also be as good.