The early bird gets the worm, as they say. But why do early risers gain such an advantage? Is it a matter of better organization, sharper focus or just plain luck? The answer is that early birds have a biological and evolutionary edge that gives them the upper hand.
The first advantage is that early birds tend to be more alert. Studies have found that when people wake up earlier than usual, their brains are more alert and attentive. This is because the body’s natural circadian rhythm is regulated by light and dark. During the day, light signals to the brain that it’s time to be awake and active, while darkness causes drowsiness. By waking up earlier, early birds get more of this light and thus increase their alertness and focus.
The second advantage comes from an evolutionary perspective. In prehistoric times, waking up earlier meant having the upper hand in gathering food and surviving. Those who were the first up had an advantage in finding shelter before nightfall and in spotting predators before they had a chance to strike.
Early risers also benefit from having a more productive day. Because they get up earlier, they can get more done before the day’s chaos ensues. They can plan out their day and take care of any important tasks or obligations before they get sidetracked by less important tasks. This helps them stay focused and on task, which can lead to greater productivity.
Finally, early birds benefit from increased motivation. Studies have found that getting up early can boost your motivation and drive. This can lead to increased productivity and better decision making. Additionally, those who are motivated are more likely to stay on task and avoid distractions.
All in all, early birds have several advantages over those who don’t. From an evolutionary perspective, waking up earlier can give you the upper hand in finding food, avoiding predators, and staying safe. From a biological perspective, waking up early can increase alertness, focus, and productivity. Finally, getting up early can increase motivation and lead to better decision making. By getting up early, you can have a better day and gain an advantage over your peers.
