diff --git a/tests/_graphical_input.pm b/tests/_graphical_input.pm
index 88c1be2a..86d7febb 100644
--- a/tests/_graphical_input.pm
+++ b/tests/_graphical_input.pm
@@ -13,6 +13,11 @@ sub run {
         # we have to set up the input method manually:
         # https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/gnome-shell/-/issues/3749
         menu_launch_type "keyboard";
+        unless (check_screen "desktop_add_input_source", 30) {
+            # first attempt to run this often fails for some reason
+            check_desktop;
+            menu_launch_type "keyboard";
+        }
         assert_and_click "desktop_add_input_source";
         assert_and_click "desktop_input_source_japanese";
         assert_and_click "desktop_input_source_japanese_anthy";