Are you a Lark, an Owl or a Third Bird?!
I first learned about Nathaniel Kleitman’s research intocircadian rhythms and chronotypes when I was at university.
In case you’ve not heard of him before, Kleitman was the father of the modern sleep study who first suggested that that traditional 9-to-5 working hours might not align with how our brains and bodies are naturally wired.
Kleitman’s research revealed that humans operate on a 24-hour internal clock – our circadian rhythm – which influences when we feel alert or tired, how productive we are, and how we process information. Within this framework he identified 3 chronotypes:
Larks – Early risers who are most productive in the morning.
Owls – Night-oriented individuals who perform their best work in the evening.
Third Birds – Those who fall somewhere in between, with moderate peaks of energy throughout the day.
The legal profession is one of the most rigid, renowned for its long hours, deadlines, and presenteeism; and I don’t believe this rigid structure works in the best interest of lawyers or their clients.
Lawyers’ work demands peak cognitive performance, whereas rigid schedules stifle productivity and creativity.
Here are just some of the benefits I believe can be achieved by enabling lawyers to structure their day according to their chronotype:
Enhanced Productivity
Clients rightly expect lawyers to perform at the top of their game, and research shows that individuals perform best when their work hours align with their natural energy levels. If a lawyers is able to adjust their schedule to match their chronotype, their productivity and performance will be maximized.
Taking a results rather than time driven approach to delivery and outcomes also vastly reduces stress and allows a lawyer to perform when best suits them, ultimately reducing burnout and improving mental health.
Reduced Burnout
The legal profession is one of the most stressful industries in the UK, with high rates of burnout and mental health challenges. Forcing lawyers to work against their natural rhythms exacerbates stress and fatigue. Flexible working, whether it’s adjusted start times or remote working, allows lawyers to maintain a healthier work-life balance.
Talent Attraction & Retention
It’s a candidate’s market and flexible working is no longer a luxury, it’s an expectation. Younger lawyers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, prioritise their work-life balance and are more likely to work for law firms that respect their individual needs. If law firms don’t embrace flexible working,they are neither going to attract top talent nor retain experienced lawyers. Traditional law firms are going to lose out to firms and consultancies which are more forward-thinking, and willing to place the needs of the individual over the outdated requirements of the partnership.
Creativity and Innovation
Legal work isn’t a tick box exercise, it’s about finding creative solutions to complex problems. Creativity flourishes when lawyers work during their peak hours of mental clarity. By enabling lawyers to tailor their work schedules, firms will foster an environment where innovative ideas thrive.
I’d love to know how your working pattern enhances or hinders your chronotype.
I’ll start by confessing that I can actually fluctuate across all 3 chronotypes according to what else is going on in my life, which would make working 9-to-5 a nightmare!
How about you?