I honestly don't think I was made for the modern "8 hours of sleep" all in one lump sum. I find myself better rested and rejuvenated by sleeping in shifts. 5-6 hours at night and 2-3 hours during the day.
I do not like working a traditional job because it messes with this.
Another thing that helps me fall asleep is if you aren't falling asleep fast, GET UP. Get out of bed, go read a book for 15-20 minutes and try again. It's better than lying there for 2 hours going "OKAY ALREADY! SLEEP!"
RE: Sleep Deprivation: A Common Problem - Best Methods for Better Snoozing - Freya Domestica