Yesterday, I took a personal day off from work and used that time to spend the day with my two kids (one is 11 years old, and the other is 8 years old).  Surprisingly we all had a great time and it got me thinking that perhaps it would be nice to spend more time with them as they grow over the next few years.  The problem is that work gets in the way, but what if I (or we) were to work alternative shifts instead, and at the same time make more money?

For instance where I work at my employer has both a second and third shift.  So let’s say I asked to be put on the third shift instead of the first shift.  Let’s examine the results if I were to be assigned to such a shift:

1. I’d instantly make 20% more money because of the shift differential.  Cha-Ching, instant bonus!
2. I would be sleeping when my kids are either sleeping or in school.  During the time they are in school, I’d be home before they get off of school, and this would work out perfectly.  During the summer, I could get a little sleep during the morning or afternoon, depending on what is going on.
3. Since hardly anyone works 3rd shift and there isn’t much work to do for part of the shift, I might be able to work two jobs at once!
4. I could even take my laptop in to work and do some side income work related tasks, obviously knowing that I need to do my shift related work first.
5. There is even the possibility of juggling two jobs and working side income opportunities for a maximum of time usage.  Although this might be difficult, and the “Side Income” tasks would have to be fairly simple in nature.
6. I would have more time to look for better paying jobs, which in turn might mean a dramatic jump in base pay.
7. I would be able to work my side businesses during the day, when more people are available for meetings and talking.
8. Another benefit would be that I could meet with professionals and city workers about issues concerning my side businesses.

Second shift would have some similar benefits, but because your working prime hours (when the kids are home), to me, it wouldn’t be as beneficial to work this shift… unless you could do it while telecommuting in to do it.

I think if you aren’t particularly crazy about your job, and you really value the time with your kids (and obviously get along), this might be a great opportunity.  I think the key to making it worthwhile is if you are willing to fully utilize the advantages of such a shift.  If you aren’t willing to take advantages of the perks, then even with the shift differential (usually 20%) it might not be worth it.  Personally, if I were working third shift, I would try to at least double my income!

Bests,

MR