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Night Owl in a 9-to-5 World

As neurodivergent folks, our energy peaks don’t always align with the standard mold.

For example, I’m pretty sure I’m a night owl at heart. I love my quiet time and staying away from the “noise”, but with:

• A 9-5 corporate job and

• Being a parent with school runs, and pickups.

This means I have to adjust my cycle and work around these.

Flexible Hours, Real Wins

For some of us, like those with ADHD or autism, timing is everything!

I’ve been fortunate to work in companies that allow flexible working, not just hybrid working, but also adjusting my hours. i.e. rather than 9-5:

• 8 am-4 pm

• 10 am-6 pm

• Leaving early to do school pickup and resuming work at home in the evening

It might be worth looking at companies that offer these options.

When My Brain’s Ready

Rigid schedules demand we start when the clock says so.

That’s not always when our brains agree. I hit my stride later and differently when the day’s chaos settles.

Nighttime offers deep focus and creative sparks. Flexibility means I can work when I’m wired, not just when I’m told.

My Routine, My Dopamine

When the day’s chaos settles, it’s perfect for my deep focus or creative sparks.

• I drop the kids off at school

• Train/Workout

• Then work begins

By this time: 10 am/10:30 am my dopamine levels are high:

• I’ve spent time with my kids

• I have little to 0 distractions

• I’m super focused

Sensory Needs Matter

Sensory stuff plays a role too, especially when commuting to work. Early starts avoid rush-hour crowds and noise.

Working later means emptier trains and quieter vibes. Fewer people around cut the overload.

Colleagues will leave work before me as they started earlier, allowing me to have another stretch of quiet time to do uninterrupted work.

What’s Your Rhythm?

I see the wisdom in 9-to-5, but I like to tweak it. My best hours might be late, or those calm pockets before and after the storm. How about you?

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Lastly,

Stay Different,

The AuDHD Exec

Disclaimer: I am not your psychiatrist, coach, doctor. Neurodiverse Diary does not provide medical services or professional counselling and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Everything I publish represents my opinions, experience, not advice.