Traveling frequently for work can be exhilarating, but let’s face it, jetlag can be a real challenge 😴. When you’re hopping between time zones on short trips, sometimes in different directions, it’s not easy to keep your energy up and your mind focused, especially when the hours of the day don’t align with your internal clock.
As I write this, I’m currently in Panama 🇵🇦, gearing up for a packed three days of networking, conferences, and port tours at TOC Americas 🚢. But here’s the kicker—my internal clock is still set to French time ⏰. Why? Because I’m only here for a short stint, and I’ve developed a personal method for managing jetlag on these quick business trips.
My rule of thumb is simple: if the number of days I’m staying is less than the number of time zones I’ve crossed, I try to adjust as little as possible to the local time. Instead, I maintain my home schedule as much as I can, which is why I found myself working at 3 AM today 🕒—on French time—while getting ready for an exciting day of tours along the Panama Canal and visits to major container terminals 🚢.
When this method works, it lets me stay productive while minimizing the impact of the time change. And when my body demands rest 💤, I try to sleep whenever possible, even if it’s just a power nap between meetings. Of course, it doesn’t always work out perfectly—sometimes you have to power through on less sleep than you’d like—but for me, this strategy strikes the right balance between productivity and recovery.
At 1407, we almost never sleep! 🌍 With teams across the USA, Turkey, Spain, and France, we nearly cover a full 24/7 availability. Whether it’s early morning in Europe or late evening in the Americas, someone at 1407 is always on the clock, ready to accelerate decision-making, provide strategic insights, and deliver solutions for our clients around the globe.
So what’s your strategy? Do you have any tricks for handling jetlag on short trips, either for work or personal travel? Whether it’s adjusting your sleep schedule in advance, hydrating more 💧, or taking melatonin supplements, I’d love to hear what works for you. Let’s start a conversation about the best ways to tackle jetlag and stay on top of our game, even when crossing time zones 🌍.
Feel free to share your tips and tricks in the comments—whether you’re a frequent flyer for business, or just love to travel!