How to Avoid Being the First One to Fall Asleep AT SCHOOLIES (Because We All Know What Happens)
We've all been there. You’re on a trip with friends, the day’s been long - flights, transfers, briefings, all that jazz. You’re feeling a bit run-down, but you push through because, hey, this trip is all about fun, adventure, and late-night shenanigans, right? The problem is, as the night wears on, the bed looks too comfy, the bed seems like the best thing ever, and your eyelids start to feel like they're made of steel.
But there’s a major problem with this: being the first one to fall asleep. No one wants to be that person. We've all seen the Instagram stories or, worse, the prank photos, where someone's face gets a makeover with a Sharpie or they get caught drooling mid-snooze. No thanks. So, to avoid that humiliating fate, I’ve put together a survival guide to help you stay wide awake, even when your body is begging for rest.
Master the Art of the Power Nap
Let’s be real. After a full day of traveling, your energy levels are probably on the decline. But don’t give in to the temptation to crash just yet. Enter the power nap.
Power naps are like the secret weapon of nightlife warriors. You can sneak in a quick 20-30 minutes of rest during the flight, or even during the day, so that you’re still standing tall when the real action begins. Trust me on this: If you use that four-hour flight for a quick nap instead of getting caught up in non-stop chatter and excitement, you’ll thank yourself later.
You’ll be feeling good once you touch down, ready to dive into all the fun activities and parties ahead. Plus, if you nap on the plane, you might even inspire others to follow you, making you less of a target for social media posts. As a bonus, if you manage to keep your nap short, you can rest up without going into full hibernation mode - just enough to keep you going without overdoing it.
Caffeine Is Your Best Friend
Now, I’m not saying to rely on caffeine as your primary source of energy (because let’s face it, that’s a slippery slope), but a well-timed cup of coffee or energy drink can be a game-changer when it comes to staying awake.
Caffeine has a magical way of keeping your mind alert, even when your body is begging to call it a night. But, here’s the catch: moderation is key. You don’t want to end up jittery, hyperactive, and that one person who’s talking a mile a minute because you’ve overdone it. Keep your caffeine intake controlled, especially if there is a long night in your future. The combo of too much caffeine and a big night can lead to some unpredictable and definitely-not-fun outcomes.
So, while you might need that morning coffee to get you going, think of your caffeinated beverage as a strategic move. Take it slow and keep a mental note of when and how much you’ve consumed, and you’ll be able to keep the party vibe going without feeling the crash.
The Fake Awake
Sometimes, you just have to act like you’re wide awake, even when your body is practically screaming for sleep. This, my friends, is where the art of the “Fake Awake” comes into play.
You’ll need to put your acting skills to the test, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to pass off your exhaustion as “just another late-night warrior.”
How to Pretend You’re Not Tired
Here’s how you master the fake awake:
- Master the Power of the Splash and Dash
A quick splash of cold water to the face is like hitting the reset button. Not only will it revive your senses, but it’ll make you look refreshed and ready to take on the night. - Brighten Up: The Magic of Eye Drops and Concealer
Tired eyes are one of the biggest giveaways when you're not actually awake. Keep eye drops and concealer on hand to eliminate redness and dark circles. With these two tricks, you can fake that wide-eyed, ‘I’m totally ready to stay awake another hour’ glow. - Stay Hydrated, Stay Energised
A common mistake people make when they’re tired is to grab yet another caffeinated drink. But the truth is, hydration is key! Sipping water throughout the night will keep your energy levels up, and the act of drinking itself keeps you looking engaged. - Perfect the ‘I’m Totally Listening’ Face
If you're struggling to keep your eyes open, maintain steady eye contact, nod occasionally, and throw in some “uh-huh’s” to let everyone know you’re paying attention. You’ll look completely present and engaged, even though your brain is halfway to dreamland. - Posture Is Everything
Slouching might be the ultimate sign of tiredness, so sit up straight. Not only does it make you look more awake, but it also helps you stay alert. - The Power of a Refreshing Outfit Change
You’d be surprised how much of a difference a quick change of clothes can make. After the long flight or the stressful transfer, a fresh outfit can work wonders on your mood and energy levels.
Dodge the Midnight Snack Trap
It’s late, the party’s still going strong, and the snacks are calling your name. But let’s be real: late-night snacking can quickly turn into an energy-zapping trap. Heavy food is your enemy when you’re trying to stay awake - it might make you feel momentarily satisfied, but it’ll only slow you down in the long run.
Instead of gorging yourself on chips or pizza, opt for lighter, healthier snacks like fruit or nuts. These will give you a small boost of energy without the inevitable food coma that comes with a midnight feast.
Stay in the Game: Fun Ways to Keep the Energy Up
When your body is starting to tell you it’s time for bed, find something to keep you occupied. A little friendly competition can do wonders to keep your energy up.
Play a game, organise a mini dance-off, or get involved in some high-energy activities. The more engaged you are, the less likely you’ll be to doze off. Plus, these kinds of activities will keep your mind active and your body moving, which will help stave off the sleepiness creeping in.
Recognising the Danger Zones: Signs You’re About to Fall Asleep
It’s always good to be aware of when you’re on the brink of nodding off. Here are some classic signs that you’re heading for a snooze:
- Heavy Eyes: If you find yourself struggling to keep your eyes open, that’s a pretty clear sign that it’s time to either get up and move around or engage in a conversation to keep the energy going.
- Nodding Off: If your head starts bobbing, it’s only a matter of time before you’re fully out. Get up, stretch, or grab a drink to revive yourself.
- Yawning: This one’s a big giveaway. If you’re yawning uncontrollably, you need to shake it off fast or risk being labeled the first one to fall asleep.
Buddy System: Find Your Anti-Sleep Wingman
Here’s a pro-tip: find a friend who’s always up for one more round and stick with them. Whether it’s grabbing a drink, chatting, or just keeping each other’s energy up, having a wingman can help keep you both in the game.
When you’re both fighting the urge to crash, you’ll be more likely to stay awake and prevent any embarrassing moments.
How to Fake a Power Boost When You’re Running on Fumes
At some point, you might find yourself running low on energy. When that happens, dig deep and use the social momentum around you to push through. Engage with others, share a laugh, or take part in a group activity. Socialising can provide a second wind when you feel like you’re about to hit the wall.
Embrace the Night Owls
When all else fails, surround yourself with the people who can keep the party going. Whether it’s the friend who’s always up for a midnight snack or the one who insists on hitting every after-party, these are the people who will help you stay in the game.
The Price of Failure: What Could Happen if You Fall Asleep First
Falling asleep first can have its consequences. It’s not just the shame of being the first one out. It’s the inevitable photos, videos, and maybe even a little makeover with Sharpie. Sure, it’s all in good fun, but let’s be honest, you don’t want to be that person. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be able to enjoy every moment of the trip without the fear of being the first to sleep.
Blog written by: Brianna Movrin
