Alright New Jersey, it’s that time of year again when we set our clocks back an hour and fully embrace the shorter days. Next Sunday, November 3rd, marks the end of Daylight Saving Time for 2024. So, at exactly 2:00 a.m., clocks will “fall back” to 1:00 a.m., giving you an extra hour of precious sleep.
What Does This Mean for You?
For most of us, this means waking up to brighter mornings (yay!) but also facing earlier sunsets, which start to creep in before 5 p.m. With the time change, New Jersey residents will notice earlier dusk, which could impact your evening commute and all those outdoor after-work plans. Be prepared for your cozy 5 p.m. evening to already feel like nighttime.
How to Adjust Smoothly
Here’s the deal: the time change can throw off your internal clock, leading to groggy mornings and restless nights, especially as we shift into the darker months. To help ease the transition:
- Prep Your Sleep Schedule: Start going to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night this week. It sounds like a hassle, but your future well-rested self will thank you.
- Enjoy the Morning Sun: With brighter mornings, take advantage of the sunlight to boost your mood and energy. If you can, go for a morning walk or just enjoy a few minutes with your coffee outdoors.
- Watch Out on the Roads: With sunset happening earlier, be extra cautious during your evening drives as visibility changes. This is especially important for pedestrians and cyclists who may not be as visible in low light.
Fun Ways to Use Your Extra Hour
Gaining an extra hour is a golden opportunity to do something just for you. Whether you use it to catch up on sleep (a solid choice), enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or take an early morning walk to see the fall foliage still hanging on in some of New Jersey’s beautiful parks, make that bonus hour count!
So, don’t forget to set your clocks back on Saturday night, and enjoy a little extra rest before you dive into November.