Can someone decrease the hours of sleep needed each night and still feel awake?

Yes & No: Our need for sleep is pre-wired and individual for each of us. We may be able to go a few days or weeks on less sleep and feel fine but it will eventually take it's toll on our physical and/or mental well being. The optimal amount of sleep varies for each person throughout their lives as well and can be affected by stress, health, or any number of things.