280: Bye Bye 9-to-5: The Power of Chronotypes with Camilla Kring

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Written By Tammy Gooler Loeb

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280: Bye Bye 9-to-5: The Power of Chronotypes with Camilla Kring

On Work from the Inside Out, episode 280, I spoke with Camilla Kring, whose story fascinated me from the start. Trained as an engineer in technical physics and change management, she now leverages that problem-solving mindset to address a human challenge: how we live and work in harmony with our natural biological clock, known as circadian rhythms. Listening to her, I began to reflect on how much of my routine supports or undermines my true energy patterns.

Camilla explained that our circadian rhythms are genetic. We don’t choose to be early birds or night owls; we’re born that way. For years, I struggled to wake up early, as if productivity only counts before sunrise. Camilla’s research and insights provoked me to rethink things and acknowledge that working in sync with my rhythm might be the best choice I could make.

Her concept of life navigation resonated with me. She encourages us to step out of autopilot and become the pilot and conductor of our own lives, aligning our goals and time with the natural peaks of our energy. That image of conducting my day like a symphony, instead of fighting against myself, was powerful.

What inspired me most was her advocacy for chrono-inclusive workplaces and schools. She shared examples of teams thriving when they respected different chronotypes, expanding productivity while also improving employee well-being. It made me realize that flexibility isn’t a luxury; it’s a foundation for healthier and more effective organizations.

This episode left me with one clear message: find your rhythm and honor it. Camilla reminded me that self-compassion and alignment with our natural clocks can elevate not just productivity, but also joy and fulfillment. For me, it’s a call to design a life that works with who I am, rather than against it.

In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

  • Know your chronotype — You are born with a biological rhythm. Understanding if you’re an early bird, a night owl, or in-between can unlock productivity and energy.

  • Reject one-size-fits-all schedules — Traditional 9-to-5 structures can suppress creativity and well-being, especially for those who peak later in the day.

  • Be the pilot of your life — Don’t live on autopilot; take intentional control of your time, rhythm, and personal goals.

  • Self-compassion is key — Embracing your natural rhythm instead of feeling guilty for not fitting societal expectations fosters healthier self-esteem.

  • Organizations thrive with flexibility — Teams and companies that honor diverse rhythms build trust, extend productivity hours, and support employees’ well-being.

Learn more about Camilla:

Interested in individual or group coaching with Tammy?  Learn more about her coaching service.

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Affiliate Links: Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links above are “affiliate links”. This means that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products and services I use personally and believe will add value to my listeners. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

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About Tammy, host of
Work from the inside out

Prior to establishing her practice, Tammy held a variety of positions in mental health services, higher education administration, public policy analysis and fundraising. Her practical knowledge and experience in organizational development, program management and business operations builds a relatable relationship with clients striving for higher performance results.

Tammy Gooler Loeb
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279: Goodbye Burnout! Exploring the Joyful Side of Exhaustion with Christina Guthier