If you're one of those people who scoff at the saying, "the early bird catches the worm," you might want to take a look at these examples.

President of coffee mega chain Starbucks' Michelle Gas wakes up at exactly 4:30 AM and goes running to clear her head before the long day ahead. Chief Avon Lady Andrea Jung is out of bed by 5 AM, hits the gym and is at her desk by 8. Long time editor of Vogue, Anna Wintour, starts her day off with a round of tennis by 6 AM. What do all these powerful women have to say about waking up before everyone else?

Well, for one, they swear by it as it's the only way to get a workout in their schedule. That workout, in turn, makes for increased focus and energy throughout the day. They also say that a bit of quite time before everyone else is in the office is a good way to organize your thoughts, especially if the day is packed with back to back meetings.

A 2008 study from the University of North Texas suggests that early risers do have a leg up on their nocturnal counterparts. While night owls are test higher in creativity and intelligence, they are also prone to depression, gloom and various anxieties.

However, early-rising larks often exhibit more positive attitudes; they are also much more stable and diligent. So if you're a working woman with a family at home, how can you utilize this advantage? Start with outsourcing as much work as you can.

Today's working woman will often have too much responsibility between work and home. By hiring other people to work the odd job here and there, you can use your time wisely and even afford to indulge with the recommended 6-7 hours of sleep, all before 6 in the morning.