What I've learned about working 9-5

I recently got my first taste of what it is like working 9-5. Through Monday to Friday I am away from home for 9 hours a day; thankfully having weekends off. This experience has lead me to reflect and realize how difficult it is to work such a long day, and how grateful I am for my circumstance. Now, because I am supposed to be in school, adjusting to work has been some-what difficult because inside I feel I shouldn't be working; I really should be studying. Here are my suggested tips on your first 9-5 working schedule. Things you should consider, shouldn't do, and what I have learned that will help my future. 

1) Pack a healthy lunch and stay hydrated

First, and foremost I have learned the importance of staying healthy. I went from having my meals planned out throughout my day (because I was not working) - to having a "lunch break" and little free time. If you want to remain healthy, pack a lunch and bring water. Nothing gets you through your day as staying hydrated!

2) Get fresh air

If you are lucky enough to have a 1 hour lunch break, go outside. Breathe in fresh and air take in the moment. It is bad enough you are stuck in a building, office, mall, or restaurant for such a long period of your day -- the least you can do to treat yourself is head outside!

3) Realize how lucky you are 

If you are like me, working a seasonal job will not be your actual career. Working so many hours will allow you to realize how lucky you are and thankfully, you are not in a position where you have to work in retail, or a fast-food joint because of education, and experience. 

4) Work on improvement

I am generally a fast learner but I have noticed areas where I need improvement. For example, I work in a mall and I am faced with dealing with hundreds of customers a day -- each with a different outlook, personality, and mood. I could have a relaxed, happy family one time, but my next customer can be livid, and impatient. Always seek improvement and reflect on the days that left you uninspired and frustrated. 

5) Go to bed early, and leave time to get ready
Whenever I have something planned to do, I wake up either an hour or an hour and a half before the said time; depending on distance, and transportation. I appreciate my mornings more when I wake up early enough where I can have coffee, eat breakfast, and get ready at my own pace. With that being said, it is imperative to stay rested and go to bed at a reasonable time. The last thing you want is to go into work exhausted, barely able to function until after lunch break.