Beyond Lark or Owl
The deeply ingrained Indian inclination to categorize people as either early risers or night owls is fundamentally flawed. This binary thinking transforms
a neutral biological trait—our chronotype, or natural sleep-wake predisposition—into a moral judgment. The truth is, true well-being and effectiveness aren't dictated by the hour one wakes, but by the alignment of one's work, relationships, and health with their inherent biological rhythm. As a retired psychiatrist and keen observer of societal dynamics, I've witnessed firsthand how these rigid perceptions cause distress and misunderstanding. Our circadian rhythm is a personal temperament of time, not a reflection of character or virtue. Forcing everyone into a single, uniform schedule ignores the diverse biological needs that underpin a functioning society, leading to unnecessary conflict and reduced potential for individuals.
Societal Rhythms, Individual Clocks
Our cities already operate on a fascinating mosaic of staggered efforts, a testament to the varied chronotypes that comprise our communities. Consider the Mumbai dabbawalas, who expertly navigate their peak productivity in the late morning, or the dedicated call-center staff in Gurugram, whose "good evenings" are a customer's early morning. Healthcare professionals, like nurses, maintain vital operations throughout the night, ensuring continuous care while the majority sleeps. This reality highlights that a functioning society inherently relies on individuals functioning at different times. The challenge arises when a singular, inflexible timetable is elevated to an unquestionable standard. Educational institutions that mandate teenagers be alert and engaged at 8 am, for instance, are working against adolescent biology rather than nurturing it. Similarly, workplaces that prize mere presence at a desk over actual output often confuse "face time" with genuine performance. Families that cast aspersions on late risers overlook the possibility that these individuals might have spent the preceding night tending to a sick child, demonstrating a different kind of dedication.
The Dharma of Time
Beyond practical considerations, there's a profound spiritual dimension to respecting our internal clocks. We are not the absolute owners of our bodies but rather stewards entrusted with their care. Prudent stewardship necessitates listening to the innate rhythms etched into our very being. This leads to a vital question: "Am I living in a way that honors my body's natural timing?" Complementing this, compassion demands a further inquiry: "Does my community make space for individuals whose biological rhythms differ from my own?" These two questions are intrinsically linked and, in the noblest Indian traditions, are matters of dharma—righteous living. A society that embraces this perspective would foster schools offering more flexible schedules for adolescents, workplaces prioritizing output over mere presence, and public services operating with staggered hours to ensure accessibility for all citizens. A public health discourse focused on sufficient sleep and alignment of effort with personal energy peaks, rather than rigid morning routines, would be a significant step forward.
A Chronotype-Inclusive Future
The benefits of cultivating a chronotype-friendly India would be far-reaching and transformative. Well-rested students exhibit enhanced learning capabilities, leading to greater academic success. Employees who are trusted to manage their energy levels and work according to their natural peaks of productivity often contribute more effectively and with greater enthusiasm. Relationships flourish when partners respect each other's distinct biological rhythms, leading to fewer misunderstandings and deeper connections. Ultimately, a nation that genuinely values being truly awake—in all its diverse forms—will discover that true wisdom lies not in the hour we open our eyes, but in the insight and effectiveness with which we utilize our waking hours. The ultimate victory isn't about choosing between being an owl or a lark, but about achieving a harmonious convergence between one's inner clock and the external timetable. May each individual discover and honor their honest clock, and may our nation evolve to accommodate the diverse rhythms of all its people, fostering a symphony of productive and fulfilled lives.
