Ask Miss Smartypants - June 7, 2010 |
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| Written by Miss Smartypants |
| Monday, 07 June 2010 00:00 |
Art: Nina Charest
Dear Miss Smartypants, I started my first co-op job last month, but there's a problem. I keep falling asleep in meetings. I've tried everything . . . getting loads of sleep, drinking coffee, digging my nails into my palms. Nothing works. The worst thing is that I know I'm falling asleep but feel powerless to stop myself. It's only meetings (not even in classes!), so the best I can figure is that I nod off because there's nothing to interest me. Any thoughts on what I can do before I get myself fired? Boredom Induced Narcolepsy Dear Miss Smartypants, New job, new problem. People call me to their offices to give me something to do, but I forget what by the time I get to my desk. I usually piece enough together to get the job done. But how long can I keep this up? What can I do? If This Were a Conversation, I'd Probably Forget Your Answer Dear Two Birds, One Stone, I love it when two questions have the same answer! It's so simple. Are you ready for it? Take notes. That's it! By taking notes, you look like you are interested in the meeting/dedicated to doing a good job, and you stimulate your brain. Even if the meeting is so irrelevant that you just start writing out the lyrics to whatever song's stuck in your head, you'll still look like you care about the proceedings. Just don't start humming. Similarly, taking notes about what's expected of you, even for a smaller task, shows that you want to meet expectations. Next time someone calls you to his/her office, bring your notebook. If someone comes to you, don't hesitate to say, "Can you hang on minute? I want to write this down." Pen + paper. Easiest solution I can offer. Though if the sleeping thing persists, you should seek the advice of a doctor to make sure it's nothing gerious, given that this is a new issue. Noted, Miss Smartypants Work troubles? Send 'em to Miss Smartypants at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
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