When it comes to productivity, the question isn't how much work you can stand to do for how long, but when you do it best. Break away from the myth of 9 to 5 as the only time to do work you'll likely uncover golden hours in the early morning or late night when your mind really takes off. These moments free your head from all the distractions and mental baggage of the day, making you more wakeful, alert and able to get things done.

Hack #1 - Listen to your internal clock

We may think of ourselves as cool and mysterious night owls or as eager, nose-to-the-grindstone early birds, but that don't mean jack do our internal clocks. Put aside your self-image for a moment and take an honest assessment of whether you're more alert and productive in the morning or at night. Alternate getting up early a few mornings or staying awake longer a few nights and see what works best for you.

Hack #2 - Get up Earlier/Stay up Later

Once you've figured out if you're a morning or a night person, see how far you can take either time. Get up at 6:30 a.m., then 6 a.m., and eventually 5 a.m., or stay up until 12:30 a.m., then 1 a.m., and work towards 2 a.m. Your body will tell you if it's working out or not.

Hack #3 - Be Consistent

Some claim they only get by on a few hours of sleep a night. Others say getting up at the same time every morning works like a charm. Figure out what works for you and once you stick with it, your body will do the rest.

Hack #4 - Nap at your own risk

It may be tempting to nap during the day when you're adjusting to your new sleeping schedule, but be warned: doze more than 20 minutes and you may have trouble getting to sleep at night. Also, nap consistently enough and your body will grow to expect naps and drop energy like ballast from a balloon when it doesn't get them.

Next time: Hack Your Sleep Pt. II, exploring ways to manage yourself in a sleep-hacked state.