As employers around the world are adopting work-from-home policies and flexible schedules, commuting times do not show any signs of decreasing in duration.
While some of us may have shorter commutes, most of us usually have to travel long distances to reach our workplaces. We spend a big chunk of time commuting to and from work daily, and that commute time could be used for productive things.
Productively spending your commute time can help you get into the work mindset and become more focused at work. It can also avoid the stress associated with prolonged and tiring commutes and help you become happier in your job and life in general.
However, making the most of your commute time to accomplish something tangible doesn’t mean you have to complete hard crossword puzzles. There are ways you can utilize the time and make your dull and long commute an interesting and productive one. Here are 8 ways you can make the most of your commute to work, especially if you are using public transit:
* Relax: Our lives are becoming increasingly busy, and we rarely get enough time to relax and unwind. With heavy workloads and demands, waking up early to prepare for work and getting back late at night, finding time to relax can seem a daunting task. You can use the time you spend in transit to relax a little. Play your favourite song to accompany your commute or take deep breaths and enjoy the scenery.
* Read: Reading is something so many people love to do but claim they don’t have time for, so spend your commuting time getting stuck into a great book.
* Set daily goals: You can utilize the time of your commute to plan out your day. Make a to-do list of the tasks you have to accomplish. You must have a notepad and pen in your bag, so you can jot down your to-do list.
* Reflect on your day: Your commute back from work can be a time to reflect on the day you have had. What did you get done today? What inspired you? Did you do your best? What could you have done better? You can even relieve a good moment from the day and relish it. This will help you be more conscious of your progress and enjoy the day.
* Catch up on the little activities: Simple activities like checking social media, responding to texts and emails, etc, can be done during commute time.
* Discover new music: Bored of your same old playlists? Use your commute time to try new artists. You can download the songs you’ve heard about. Listening to these songs will put a brighter spin on your day and help you start or end the day on a cheerful note.
* Get inspired: Instead of gazing mindlessly at the environment, try taking a few minutes to notice the people around you. Notice their clothes, their activities, the general vibe they give off. Pay attention to these things to get inspired. This will help you enjoy every moment instead of simply zoning out and operating on autopilot.
* Brainstorm solutions to problems: Use the time to brainstorm or troubleshoot problems at home or work. Take advantage of being alone with your thoughts and start strategizing. You never know, the next big answer might come while you’re just spacing out and giving your brain a break.
