By: Cate Eberly

Someone who is an early bird can be characterized by going to sleep early, waking up early, and generally having more energy in the first half of the day. On the other hand, night owls tend to stay up late, sleep in late, and have more energy in the second half of the day. 

Some positives about being an early bird are that society accommodates them more than night owls. Most workplaces or schools operate from morning till late afternoon.

Bellbrook High School junior Ashelyn Barrios describes herself as a typical early bird. “I find myself naturally going to sleep early,” Barrios said. 

One benefit Barrios finds from being up in the early morning is prep for test days. “I like to get up and get my mind moving before,” Barrios said. “I will run or something similar if it is a big test.”

For night owls, however, our early schedule can be a challenge. Late nights often lead to disrupted sleep routines and tired mornings. 

Still, BHS senior Allison Gerbic likes staying up late despite school demanding early wake-up calls. “I find at night time it’s the only time I can wind down and take a moment for myself,” Gerbic said. “If I were to wake up early in the morning, I would be consumed by the day ahead of me compared to nighttime.”

Changing sleep patterns is possible for night owls who are required to go to sleep early to combat early school mornings. According to UCLA Health, optimizing your light exposure in the early hours of the day and limiting it in the evening can increase the likelihood of falling asleep earlier. Additionally, trying to go to sleep the minute you feel tired and staying consistent can naturally help to alter a sleep schedule. 

Getting enough quality sleep plays an essential role in physical and mental well-being, whether you prefer to staying up late at night or getting up early in the morning.