Why Don't I Personally Like Daylight Saving Time?

I get no value from daylight saving time. The primary inconvenience it brings is the twice-annual clock change and the unnecessary stress and other inconveniences that accompany it. When we “spring forward,” the earlier daylight we are accustomed to seeing in the morning transforms into darker and colder days. This change, which I consider a form of “time deceit,” negatively impacts my motivation for early morning walks. It subtracts from my overall health and well-being.

When we “fall back” to standard time, my internal clock is thrown off, leaving me tired too early in the evening and waking up too early in the morning. Thankfully, we still revert to standard time; otherwise, it would be darker during the morning commute for many people.

I find it particularly distressing to think about sending children to school in the dark just to have a few more hours of afternoon daylight. Many people plead for this change, but I consider it inconsiderate. While working during full daylight hours isn’t ideal for everyone, it typically lasts only for a short period, especially in regions like Alaska. But even so, I don’t believe that daylight saving time (DST) makes a significant difference.

For those of us who work from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the southwest, the days feel too short and the nights too long after the time change in November. This is a stark example of why some regions, such as Arizona, have opted out of DST.

The abolishment of DST in Arizona was a popular decision. In Phoenix and Tucson during late June, for instance, the oppressive heat at 3 p.m. made it clear that DST was not a practical solution. It introduced more afternoon daylight but at an uncomfortable temperature, leading to a swift vote to end DST via popular support.

Despite not participating in DST, I still experience inconvenience, such as the stock market opening earlier—something I find unpleasant. Additionally, I often have to guess the time in other states, a task that is vexing but necessary.

Alternate Perspectives on Time Changes

Supporters of DST often argue that it provides more daylight in the evenings, which can be beneficial for physical activity, reducing the risk of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and generally making for a more productive day. However, arguments against DST highlight the frequency of time changes and the resulting disruptions. Many people find the changes to their sleep patterns to be particularly jarring, especially the transition to and from DST.

Arizona and other regions like it, such as parts of Australia and some European countries, have successfully maintained a permanent standard time. This approach aligns more closely with the natural rhythm of their ecosystems and reduces the negative impacts of repeated time shifts. If more regions adopted this model, it could significantly improve the quality of life for its residents.

Conclusion: Time for a Change

In conclusion, while there are benefits to being able to work and engage in activities during daylight hours, the recurring disruption and health impacts of DST outweigh these benefits. Arizona’s model of sticking to standard time serves as a compelling example of how a more stable time regime can enhance both productivity and well-being. If we truly want to create a system that aligns more closely with the natural rhythms of our daily lives, it’s time to ditch DST and embrace a more consistent approach to time.