The Sleepless Elite

Why Some People Can Run on Little Sleep and Get So Much Done

Melinda Beck explains why for a small number of people getting a full night of sleep is a waste of time and the reasons behind it.
By
Melinda Beck

For a small group of people—perhaps just 1% to 3% of the population—sleep is a waste of time.

Natural "short sleepers," as they're officially known, are night owls and early birds simultaneously. They typically turn in well after midnight, then get up just a few hours later and barrel through the day without needing to take naps or load up on caffeine.

They...