More than a year ago I decided that I would not wake up early if it was not necessary and my happiness level increased a lot.
I am lucky to have a flexible job so why not take advantage of it and get up later? I get up between 7:30 am and 8:00 am (I go to sleep about 11:00 pm).
According to the book Why We Sleep? by Matthew Walker[1], 70% of people are “early birds”, while 30% are “night owls”. The problem is that this majority, who do not have much trouble waking up early, dictates the rules and therefore society is made for early risers. Whoever is not has a disadvantage, even seen as lazy regardless of whether at the end of the day they were more productive or not.
I have never done a test to see if I am an “early bird” or “night owl”, but I do know something: I am happier when I get up a bit later. I am more attentive, happier, I can work on my personal projects after my job because I still have energy. Of course, there are things that merit getting up early, like going on a trip, but most of the time not. I agree that getting up early makes the day “yield” more, but the happiness of getting up without being sleepy is worth it. As Lord Farquaad said, “It is a sacrifice I am willing to make” 😁.
I am aware that not everyone has the luck of having a job that allows them to do it; I just tell it as my own experience. This part joins others in which I believe that we have to think about what best suits us instead of accepting the rules dictated to us without questioning.
[1] My rhythm is not your rhythm. Why We Sleep? Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams, Matthew Walker, PhD