Sorting out a Sleep Schedule

Since recently relying on coffee to keep myself going throughout the days, I have been unable to feel tiredness at any time before 2:00 AM. I was getting a lot of writing done, but the tiredness was starting to outweigh that benefit.

After a week of this, I knew I had to reset the cycle. I tried a few different things at first, like no screens in the evening, and absolutely no caffeine, but nothing seemed to help.

Yesterday I thought I needed to do something a bit more drastic. I decided to try sleeping pills. Strong ones. I took them early in the evening, and by my flawed logic, they would surely wear off in time for a bright early morning start. No, definitely not, and I was knocked out till 11:00 AM. Even then they hadn’t worn off and I was useless all day. Still, at dinner time right now, I don’t even have the energy to eat.

I’m not sure if this is the normal reaction but I feel like I’ve had the flu! Sore throat, fatigue, and aching bones have been constant since I woke up, although it kind of feels like I’m still asleep. The most unexpected side effect though were the nightmares. I never usually have them, but last night they were awful, being kidnapped, then trapped inside a horror movie, it was so strange. I can safely say I won’t be trying those tables again.

I was thoroughly unsuccessful at writing today. Through shaky fingers I managed to get the laptop set up, but all my ideas got lost in my foggy mind before I could type them out. I tried to focus for an hour but I couldn’t wake myself up enough. I felt pretty guilty about it, after all it was my own silly idea that made me so exhausted.

Despite this mistake, at least I know that whatever happens tomorrow I will feel better than I did today! And will definitely get more done.