Is an 8-hour sleep goal unrealistic?

[LindaMtl]

It's clear that for me an 8-hour sleep goal is unrealistic. I've been monitoring sleep with Fitbit for 5 years and have achieved 8 hours sleep no more than once a month - my range is 5.5 to 6.5 hours with sleep score in the low 70's. I have a fairly healthy sleep routine and follow most recommendations. Despite this, the only time I get 8 hours sleep seems to be after I've spent several days doing hours of high intensity activity. I generally feel good when I wake up but have to admit that I feel fantastic on days I do achieve those 8 hours which also come with an 80%+ sleep score. 

Anyone in a similar situation who managed to increase their sleep time? Are there statistics that indicate the percent of active healthy individuals (or even Fitbit users) that actually get 8-hours most nights? Is there information about healthy longevity and shorter sleep cycles? 

[Reuben64]

I just started using the Fitbit and was surprised to see that I thought I was getting 8 hours in terms of when I went to bed and woke up, my score was more like 6 1/2 to 6 3/4. I don’t feel tired the next day but my sleep score is around 74, so I don’t know. 

[vee]

The old eight hour recommendation included all the awake time that’s on our charts. So yes it’s a bit unrealistic and not needed for most to get a full eight hours of sleep. I’d have to be in bed about nine hours. I usually get about 6 1/2 hours of sleep in 7 1/2 hours. I’m happy when I get seven, just feel like I could use a little more, but it’s been like this for years. My scores are usually in the 80’s. Time asleep is only one component of the score and I’m often surprised at the high scores with less sleep, but they pay a lot of attention to the heart rate (i.e. restoration) and your stages of deep and rem.