~NIGHT OWLS~

Night owls

Night owls, or people who are more active during the night, have been misunderstood by society for a long time. It can be challenging for early birds and night owls to work together, especially since the world operates on the schedule of early risers. Schools and jobs run during daytime hours, when night owls are less active. 

Certain things determine if a person is a night owl. One's circadian rhythm is the internal clock that regulates our body’s sleep and wake cycles over 24 hours. It is controlled by the part of the brain that responds to light and is hence slow in night owls. Chronotypes are another factor that affects an individual's sleep patterns. They are our body's natural tendency to go to sleep and wake up at certain times following the circadian rhythm. Night owls have the "wolf" chronotype which makes them more productive during the night time. This means they are viewed as lazy just because they are not attentive during the morning hours. However, they weren't always perceived this way. During prehistoric times, people who stayed up late were highly regarded as they were able to keep watch and protect their tribes from nocturnal predators. In ancient times, they were also able to protect their cities from conquerors who tried to sneak in at night. Now, more studies on night owls have been conducted to better understand and appreciate their natural sleep patterns. Research has shown that night owls may not be as focused during the day, but that doesn't make them less hardworking or less intelligent. It simply means they work better at different times of the day. 

While it isn't very easy to change our sleeping patterns, the narrative around night owls can certainly be changed. They shouldn't be looked upon as lazy or unproductive just because their circadian rhythm is slower. Encouraging them will help them embrace their nature and work in a better manner when they are active and in their most attentive state.