Morning versus Evening Preferences and Individual Productivity

Objective. The purpose of this study was to correlate productivity and life habits of night owls and early birds. Background. Recent studies have shown differences in morning versus evening people; in particular regarding personality traits, cognitive abilities, work schedules and habits. In this study, pharmacists (n = 534) attending a regional conference were surveyed. Results. The audience self reported approximately the same distribution of early birds (36%), night owls (40%), and neither (23%). Remarkably almost everyone claimed to be highly productive (87%), detail-oriented people (78%). However, only 31% were Type A personality. Over half admitted to being procrastinators (54%). Most felt they were in good overall health (55%) and only feel down sometimes (45%) or rarely (42%). Yet, most did not consider themselves highly energetic physically (57%). Many indicated they exercise infrequently (41%), but were at their ideal body weight (38%) or 10-20 pounds overweight (37%). They eat right (56%) and usually eat breakfast (63%). Most people reported only 1-2 doses of caffeine daily (63%). The majority were married (68%), but did not have children living at home (57%) or any pets (46%). Interestingly more than half of the pharmacists did not admit to taking any form of sleep aid (53%). Conclusion. Correlations between life habits and cognitive abilities of night owls and early birds and their individual preferences can be made.