According to CNN, there are several practical steps to help participants remain alert during long online or in-person meetings. First, ensure you've had enough sleep beforehand - being well-rested significantly improves focus and reaction time. Second, incorporate light movement during meetings, such as stretching, standing up briefly, or doing neck and shoulder rolls, to boost blood flow and alertness.

Additionally, staying hydrated or having a modest amount of caffeine can help maintain wakefulness. Having a water bottle handy not only keeps you hydrated but can also prompt you to stand or move occasionally. Adjusting your environment - for example sitting near a window or in a well-lit, ventilated area - can reduce drowsiness by increasing exposure to light and fresh air. Finally, actively engaging in the meeting - by asking questions, taking notes, or interacting with others - increases mental involvement and helps prevent drifting off.

The report notes that if meetings are excessively long, content is dull, or you're sleep-deprived, these strategies may not fully prevent fatigue. In such cases, consider short breaks or suggest to organizers adjusting meeting length or format to preserve efficiency and well-being.