Struggling to stay awake in a meeting? Here’s what to do

(CNN) — Everyone knows what it’s like to be stuck in a boring meeting or class, or watching a long performance, or overseeing a cabinet meeting, and slowly feel the seemingly unstoppable force of sleepiness creep over you. You know how bad it’ll be if you’re caught catching public shuteye, but the Sandman still gets you in the end.

Fear not. There are expert-backed solutions to this small but insistent crises.

Many ways to stay awake

“First and foremost, prioritize sleep and ensure you get enough rest the night before important meetings to help you stay alert,” said Dr. Rachel Salas, professor of neurology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Salas also recommends setting clear goals and intentions before the meeting, so you know what you want to learn or contribute.

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