How to Stay Awake at Meetings

There is nothing worse in the workday than a long, boring meeting. Graphs and pie charts seem to equal boredom for most of the parties involved. But falling asleep during a meeting is corporate suicide. So, you have to come equipped with techniques to stay awake at meetings. Some of these you may have already thought of, but others may be new. Choose what works for you.

Instructions

1. Keep your blood sugar up. Sodas, candy and gum are all good ways to keep yourself awake at meetings. Chewing or sipping loudly may just get you sent out into the hallway, so be discreet.

2. Utilize the power of caffeine. A double mocha latte will help you keep your energy level high and help you sit through those third-quarter projections without drooling all over the conference table. If you don't like coffee, drink soda or tea. If you're really desperate, try a Red Bull.

3. Chime in. When you feel yourself getting drowsy, speak up and participate in the conversation. Not only will it snap you back into reality, it may just help you suck up to upper management.

4. Excuse yourself. If you can't stay awake no matter what, excuse yourself to go to the restroom. Splash a little water on your face, do a few jumping jacks and check your voice mail. You should then be able to finish out the meeting refreshed and rejuvenated.

5. Feel the pain. This is an extreme tactic, but it works. When you realize you're dozing off, try to distract yourself by inflicting pain on a hidden part of your body. Bite your cheek, pinch yourself or stab yourself in the thigh with a pencil--not enough to yelp, but enough to make you snap back into the current moment. Placing a thumb tack in your shoe is another means of inflicting pain.