How to beat jet lag

By: Jett Running

“Ever wonder the secret to surviving air travel?” asks the man next to Bruce Willis in Die Hard (1988). “When you get where you're going, take off your shoes, take off your socks, walk around barefoot, and make fists with your toes.” It’s a strange bit of advice, but it hints at the lengths we’ll go to find comfort on long journeys. My name is Jett, and let's get into how jet lag can be avoided.

For frequent business travelers, jet lag is a formidable adversary. Shifting through time zones can wreak havoc on your focus and energy, often right when you need them most. Brain fog, irritability, and fatigue are inevitable side effects of globe-trotting, leaving professionals scrambling to find strategies that actually work.

Yet, there’s a surprising lack of proven solutions, despite the countless hacks circulating online. Some suggest starting the day with chocolate, taping plant seeds behind your ears, or even trying Viagra—a 2007 study showed it helped rodents overcome jet lag more quickly. But for real results? A bit more strategy and self-discipline go a long way.

The good news is, while there’s no magic pill, a few habits can make a big difference. Start by adjusting your internal clock before the trip. Heading east? Take melatonin and hit the sack early a few nights before you fly (advice most will ignore). Heading west? Shift your bedtime back a bit and enjoy the extra hours awake.

On arrival, caffeine becomes your best friend. Grab coffee when you land but keep it moderate—going overboard can leave you wired in all the wrong ways. Hydrate frequently, too; planes are infamously dehydrating. If you land during the day, get outside, soak up some sunlight, and reset your body’s natural rhythms. And if there’s a gym or a pool? A quick workout can refresh your mind.

When it comes to the actual flight, first class is ideal for getting some rest, but if that’s not in the cards, settle into your seat with a plan. Melatonin tablets, CBD oil, or even a light antihistamine can help induce sleep at the right times. These aren’t for every flight but can be a lifesaver on longer trips. And don’t forget essentials: an eye mask, earplugs, and a neck pillow.

Some professionals swear by fasting during flights to help mitigate jet lag, but it’s a personal choice (and frankly, there are plenty of in-flight snacks). Better to embrace the few hours as a chance to unwind. Catch up on that business journal, take some notes, or enjoy a rare bit of screen time without interruptions.

Ultimately, reducing jet lag boils down to strategic planning. In a world where business moves at the speed of light, savvy travelers know the value of arriving sharp and ready to perform. Jet lag may be inevitable, but how you manage it defines how quickly you can pivot from passenger to productive. Embrace your travel routine, leverage the downtime for strategic planning, and come prepared to hit the ground running, no matter where you land.