Working as a security guard often means being on your feet for long periods of time or keeping watch in a call center during a late night shift. Seemingly endless stretches of uneventful or after-hours downtime can eventually become monotonous, causing boredom or fatigue. Because the primary duty of security personnel is to protect and monitor people or property, they must be careful not to engage in any activities or hobbies that might interfere with or distract from their attention. However, there are some useful and functional things that a security guard can do to live out a boring shift.
Keep it moving: Getting moving, getting your blood flowing, and maintaining your energy are key to staying alert, both physically and mentally. Walking back and forth in your designated area is always an option, although many times this may mean only a few feet and if a guard is employed at a store, business or public place, chances are part of your day includes “doing the rounds”, which can mean a strategic tour of the area they are patrolling. This common procedure generally occurs at specific times during the course of a shift. Ask your supervisor to increase your number of rounds or expand your checkpoints to include new territories. Even just adding another regulation walk to boring afternoon hours will infuse a bit of variety into the workday.
Make A Muscle: Almost all security and bodyguards are required to be physically fit and maintain formidable shape; While the degree of physical labor varies based on their experience and the needs of their employers, most professionals in this occupation practice continuous fitness and make their exercise routine a priority. Downtime at work is a perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your mind and body by doing a set of push-ups, jumping jacks, stretching, or even using the wall for resistance-style exercises.
Listen and learn: Security guards need to hear what’s going on around them, so headphones or loud music are not recommended, but for desk guards and call center workers, a small radio or player MP3s at low volume can provide just the right amount. of stimulation to maintain a focused and invested mindset. If allowed, a low-profile MP3 player or listening device in one ear can provide moderate entertainment while keeping the focus on the work at hand.
Depending on the situation, one or more of the above activities may or may not be appropriate for certain situations. It’s a good idea for guards to inquire about company protocol before engaging in any hobby that is not part of their primary job.
