To stay awake when tired, some effective strategies include staying hydrated with water or herbal tea, splashing cold water on your face, taking regular breaks especially with physical movement, and keeping your environment cool and well-lit. Avoiding sugar, which can cause energy spikes and crashes, and using caffeine in moderation can also help. Additionally, short naps of 15-30 minutes can be refreshing and boost alertness without causing grogginess. Engaging in conversations or listening to stimulating music can further help keep the mind alert. Deep breathing exercises and changing tasks or location can also raise energy levels. These methods support managing tiredness during the day while aiming for quality rest at night for overall better alertness.