Be Incredible Bites:

• Your chronotype is genetically determined.

• Ignoring your sleep rhythm can reduce health and productivity.

• Aligning your schedule with your chronotype improves energy and focus.

What Is a Chronotype?

Your chronotype determines whether you’re naturally a morning person (lark) or night owl. This isn’t just personal preference—it’s genetic.

“Your sleep schedule is largely out of your control,” explains Dr. Walker. Chronotypes are driven by 22 genes that dictate when your body prefers to sleep.

Why Fighting Your Chronotype Hurts

Forcing night owls to wake up early or pushing morning larks to stay up late decreases sleep quality and performance. Over time, this misalignment can lead to:

• Higher risk of depression.

• Increased likelihood of obesity and heart disease.

• Reduced productivity and focus.

“Chronotype isn’t a preference—it’s biology,” Walker emphasizes.

How to Identify Your Chronotype

Take the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) or observe when you naturally feel most awake and energetic.

How to Align With Your Chronotype

• Night Owls: Try to shift work or commitments later in the day when possible.

• Morning Larks: Schedule important tasks early when your energy is highest.

• Flex Types: Experiment with slight adjustments, but stick to a regular schedule.

Recognizing and respecting your chronotype is one of the most powerful tools for boosting mental clarity, productivity, and overall health.