We are either 3rd shifters or degens lol — this phrase perfectly sums up the lifestyle of those who stay active while the rest of the world sleeps. For some, it’s due to night shifts at work. For others, it’s about living in the digital fast lane, gaming, trading, or creating content in the late hours. Nighttime has its own rhythm, and the people who thrive in it often share a unique mindset, lifestyle, and sense of humor.
Whether you’re a professional working odd hours, a crypto trader watching global markets, or simply someone who enjoys the quiet energy of the night, this lifestyle shapes habits, social circles, and even career paths. But what exactly does it mean to be a “3rd shifter” or a “degen,” and why do so many embrace it?
Understanding the 3rd Shift Lifestyle
The term 3rd shifters refers to people who work overnight, typically between 10 PM and 6 AM. This includes healthcare workers, security staff, transportation employees, call center agents, and many others. The world may sleep, but essential services keep running because of these professionals.
Working the night shift often means:
- Adapting to a reversed sleep cycle.
- Eating meals at unusual times.
- Developing strong time management skills.
Many choose this lifestyle for higher pay rates, fewer workplace distractions, or personal preference. However, it can come with challenges like disrupted sleep patterns, social isolation, and maintaining a healthy routine. Still, for those who adapt well, it offers flexibility and an escape from the usual 9-to-5 grind.
The Meaning of “Degens” in Modern Slang
The word degen comes from “degenerate,” but in internet culture, it has evolved into a playful term. In online communities — especially in cryptocurrency, stock trading, and gaming circles — being a “degen” often means taking high risks, staying up all night, and pursuing unconventional ways of making money or having fun.
Degens are known for:
- Jumping into fast-moving trends.
- Taking risks others might avoid.
- Being active during global market hours, often overnight.
In many cases, this label is worn proudly, signaling independence, boldness, and a love for unconventional lifestyles. While outsiders may see it as reckless, insiders often see it as adventurous and exciting.
Why the Night Belongs to 3rd Shifters and Degens
Nighttime has a different energy compared to the day. For 3rd shifters, it’s about productivity without the noise of the daytime rush. For degens, it’s the thrill of chasing opportunities or engaging in high-energy online communities.
Some benefits of late-night living include:
- Fewer distractions – More focus on work or hobbies.
- Global opportunities – Connecting with people in different time zones.
- Unique culture – Memes, chats, and humor that only night owls understand.
The quiet of the night can feel calming, while the digital world remains buzzing. It’s a perfect combination for those who thrive outside the standard schedule.
Health and Lifestyle Tips for Night Owls
Whether you’re on the 3rd shift or living the degen life, maintaining health and balance is crucial. Odd schedules can take a toll if you’re not mindful.
Here are a few tips:
1. Prioritize Sleep Quality
Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or white noise machines to improve rest during the day.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Avoid excessive caffeine and junk food, which can affect both sleep and energy levels.
3. Stay Socially Connected
Make time for friends and family to avoid feelings of isolation.
4. Exercise Regularly
Movement helps boost mood, energy, and overall health.
The Online Connection Between 3rd Shifters and Degens
One of the most fascinating aspects of this culture is how connected these groups are online. Social media, forums, and live chats are active around the clock. A 3rd shifter might be taking a break at work while a degen is celebrating a late-night crypto win — and both will be laughing over the same meme.
Communities thrive because:
- People in different time zones overlap.
- There’s a sense of belonging in being awake when others aren’t.
- Humor and shared experiences create strong bonds.
It’s a blend of work, play, and community — all happening while the rest of the world sleeps.
The Humor Behind “We Are Either 3rd Shifters or Degens Lol”
The phrase itself is lighthearted, almost self-deprecating. It acknowledges that staying up all night is unusual, but it also embraces it. In internet culture, humor is often used to create identity and connection, and this saying is a perfect example.
It’s not just a statement — it’s a shared joke, a badge of honor, and a nod to everyone who has ever looked at the clock at 4 AM and thought, “Yep, this is my life now.”
Final Thoughts
We are either 3rd shifters or degens lol is more than just an internet catchphrase. It reflects a whole subculture of people who thrive outside traditional schedules, whether for work, passion, or sheer enjoyment of the night. From essential workers keeping the world running to online risk-takers chasing opportunities, this lifestyle is full of unique challenges and rewards.
The night isn’t for everyone — but for those who love it, it offers freedom, connection, and an entirely different way of living. Whether you’re grinding through a shift or scrolling through late-night chats, you’re part of a global community that understands the magic of the midnight hours.