Nailing the Night Shift Rhythm – Life's Looking Up - 2025 - Week 34 Update


Journal Entry:

This week, I’ve been focused on dialing in a solid sleep schedule around my night shift at WinCo, and let me tell you—it’s been a challenge, but I’m loving how my life is set up right now. Flipping to nights means tweaking everything: powering through the shift, crashing for a deep nap in the morning, then rising refreshed for the day ahead. It’s not always smooth—those first few days felt like jet lag on steroids—but I’m finding my groove. Short power naps, consistent wind-down routines, and prioritizing rest have made all the difference.

The payoff? More energy for what matters, and a sense of balance that keeps the adventure rolling. What makes it all worthwhile is the rewarding feeling of being part of a team with a crystal-clear goal each night. At WinCo, we stock shelves, organize aisles, and set up the store for success—and the tangible results are right there in the morning: a polished space ready for customers. It’s fulfilling in a way that’s different from my sales and marketing days; you see the impact immediately, and as an ESOP company, every effort builds shared success. It’s a reminder of the power of teamwork and purpose, aligning perfectly with what I’m building long-term through my blog and handyman biz.

Speaking of which, I landed another handyman client this week! They need some work done on their rental unit—repairs, updates, the works—and I’m really excited to dive in. It’s another step in growing the business, creating value, and scaling toward that acquisition goal. Getting out there, solving real problems, and seeing satisfied clients? It’s pure motivation.

On a more personal note, I’ve started talking to a girl, and things are going really well. We’re connecting on a genuine level, sharing laughs and stories, and I’m excited to see how our relationship unfolds. It’s a bright spot in the mix, reminding me that life’s rebuild includes opening up to new connections and joys.

Overall, things are going well, and I know they’re heading in the right direction. This season of proof—balancing the night shift, handyman hustle, and personal growth—is shaping me into someone stronger and more intentional. Life is what you make it, and right now, I’m making mine rewarding and full.

Here’s my challenge for you this week: take a look at your own routine—sleep, work, or personal life—and tweak one thing to make it more balanced. Maybe it’s a better bedtime ritual or reaching out to someone new. Hit reply and share what you’re adjusting—I’d love to hear and cheer you on!

With gratitude and good vibes,

Justin

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Published on August 19, 2025

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Published on August 18, 2025

Justin Stephens features night shift vet Tom Rivera in Point of View: Thriving on nights—own routines (sleep/fuel), maximize quiet productivity (batch tasks), build resilience (balance/mindset). Examples: Cut errors 20%, launch side gig. Tips for hustlers! Subscribe at justindcstephens.com! Thriving on Night Shifts: A Point of View from Night Shift Expert Tom Rivera

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Published on August 17, 2025

Justin Stephens' Journal Entry on first WinCo week: Enjoying night shift (stocking/organization), loving clear expectations/team wins, ESOP ownership pride. Handyman hustle thriving (client event prep). Sleep hacks for productivity, parents' support with kids. Excited adventure! Subscribe at justindcstephens.com! First Week at WinCo: Night Shift Surprises, Handyman Wins, and Sleep Hacks

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Spotlight on Center for Nonprofit Excellence: Promoting Service Excellence in Communities

Published on August 16, 2025

Justin Stephens spotlights Center for Nonprofit Excellence in Great Causes: Empowering nonprofits with training, consulting, & Standards for Excellence to enhance community service/impact. Programs: Workshops/advising. Donate/partner at thecne.org. Subscribe at justindcstephens.com! Spotlight on Center for Nonprofit Excellence: Promoting Service Excellence in Communities

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Justin Stephens

Life with Justin Stephens

I am on a journey to document the true value of time. I am doing that through writing my own documentary on my life on X. By subscribing, you will be seeing behind the scenes on how I believe we as a society can collapse time and take care of each other better.

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