Nappucino

We all live one day at a time, and we start each day not knowing what kind of adventures the next 24 hours have in store. How should we structure the day that lies ahead? Aside from the schedules that may be put upon us, does it matter what order in which we do things in a day? Is there such a thing as early birds and do they really catch the worm? Are the “night owls” a legitimate, and equally productive, personality?

Author Daniel H. Pink in his book When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing (Riverhead Books, 2018) suggests that indeed there is a universal natural ebb and flow to the day, and these are legitimate designations for different types of people related to what part of the day they are most productive. He even introduces the designation of “third bird” which is what probably 75% of us are. Third birds are not really early risers (“larks” in Pink’s terminology), but definitely more productive in the earlier hours of the day, with a definite slump in the early afternoon hours. This is particularly true when tasks are of a more analytical nature. Apparently the Italians and Spaniards were right in establishing their cultures so that much of commerce shuts down from 1-3ish PM daily.

The book gives multiple examples of standardized test results that vary significantly depending on when the tests are taken in a given day. Early morning test takers consistently outperform early afternoon test takers, unless, the early-afternooner’s are allowed to exercise for 30 minutes prior to the test! Even in the business world, corporate reports are consistently more negative in tone when delivered in the afternoon versus the morning.

What about long term projects? Yup, even they have a cycle, with a definite lull in energy and enthusiasm in the middle of the project compared to the beginning and ending. Even synchronizing with a group, be it a rowing team or a chorus leads to great emotional and physical satisfaction through a sense of belonging.

Here’s an interesting twist. Is your work more of that which involves the need for insight? “Flashes of illuminance” occur more easily in the early afternoon. It’s that time when the guards that keep us from distraction and make analysis happen more easily are down allowing for more insightful problem solving.

Speaking of the early afternoon lull, I personally enjoy a quick Sunday afternoon‬ nap. My wife swears our bodies know it’s Sunday and nap time! That aside, for those who enjoy the afternoon nap, followed by a cup of Joe, Pink suggests a better way. He calls it the “nappucino.” Citing evidence that it takes 30 to 35 minutes for caffeine to enter the bloodstream and create its effect on the body, he suggests limiting nap time to a maximum of 30 minutes total, and drink your coffee before settling in for the mini Zzz’s. ‬‬

Is this a useful bit of info? As the saying goes, forewarned is forearmed. If you discover your child is going to be taking a standardized test in the afternoon, encourage your children’s school to make sure the kids get out for a good breath of fresh air and some physical exertion prior to the test. Involved in a long term project? Plan for stimulating incentives to take place in the middle of it.

Also, it might be valuable to consider what kind of “bird” you are. Are you a “lark,” jumping out of bed before the alarm, ready to go? Don’t fight it – use it. Seek the kind of work and work schedule that suits your personality and flourish. Do you find you don’t really get going until the sun starts to set? Accept that natural tendency and if at all possible act accordingly. Are you somewhere in between these bookends to the day? You’re in good company! Keep in mind that you might have to squelch your frustration with the other 2 types as you go about the typical American work day.

And remember, as Charlie Chaplan said, “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” Most importantly, you must become in tune with your own cycle of productivity and work to plan your day accordingly. Fighting it will only lead to frustration and exhaustion. Rather, if you are able to work in sync with your own internal timing, you will experience a far greater level of productivity and a better work-life balance as a result.