Jimmy, a 32‑year‑old Kenyan, secured a remote position with a Chicago‑based company and works a shift that runs from 4 pm to midnight Nairobi time, aligning with the 8 am‑4 pm workday in Chicago.

During the first month, he relied on afternoon naps to stay alert, but after three months his body adjusted and he no longer needs the naps.

He now aims for eight uninterrupted hours of sleep each night, waking around 8:30 am to have a relaxed breakfast and read a few chapters of a self‑help book before heading to the gym at 10:30 am.

His gym routine lasts two hours, combining treadmill work, a short run and a structured programme with a coach, benefitting from a quieter gym during mid‑morning hours.

After returning home by 2 pm, he prepares his main meal, then uses the two‑hour window before his shift for career planning, reflection or listening to music.

During the 4 pm‑midnight work period, he keeps his desk light, snacking only on nuts and staying hydrated with water.

Friends, family and his girlfriend—who works similar hours—know to reach him between 2 pm and 4 pm, before his shift begins, and they now see each other mainly on weekends.

He reports feeling less stressed, sharper and even younger, a change noted by former colleagues and acquaintances.