The Commute Dilemma: Turning Travel Time into Productivity 🚇

Commuting is now a pivotal factor in job selection. Unlike a couple decades ago, numerous companies now offer work from home (remote) or hybrid positions where some days are spent working in an office and others from home. For many of us, in a world of remote position possibilities, a lengthy commute sounds like a drag. It takes time from your day and resources in the form of gas, bus passes, etc. While remote or hybrid positions may be appealing, they’re not always an option. If you have to commute, there are multiple ways you can use that time to add value to your day, instead of feeling like it’s a drain on your day. 

Reframe Your Commute Mindset 

Dreading a commute is no way to start your day. By shifting perspective and viewing your commute as free time to work with, instead of lost time, you improve your productivity and your mood. Your commute can start to be something you look forward to rather than dreading. It can be an inspiring, motivating morning shift and a great way to decompress while keeping your momentum going on your way home. The goal is to turn wasted time into a productive commute.

Learn on the Go: Educational Commutes

A great way to maximize travel time is by listening and learning on the go. This could be anything from how-to guides, to studies, self improvement books, and more. To get started:

1. Pick the listening option that works best for you

   1. Podcasts

   2. Audiobooks

   3. Youtube

2. Pick a platform

   1. There are many podcast platforms to choose from, a few of the most popular are:

      1. Spotify

      2. Apple Podcasts

      3. Google Podcasts

      4. Amazon Music/Audible

      5. Pocket Casts

   2. Similarly, you have multiple options for choosing audiobooks. Some are even free or may be included with a subscription you already have. Here are some popular options:

      1. Audible

      2. Google Play Books

      3. Hoopla

      4. Apple Books

      5. Libby

3. Search for your topic

4. Start listening on your next commute

Finding a fun way to turn your commute into learning creates momentum and inspiration to drive your day.

Plan and Organize: Get Ahead Before You Arrive

The next step is to determine your goals and listening schedule for your commutes. This can be set to fit your schedule, whether you plan for the next day or the next week. Determining what you want to listen to in advance sets you up to accomplish your goals. It takes decision making out of the process during times where your focus is already spoken for. Mornings are busy getting yourself, and maybe others, ready for their day. Getting through your morning routine and heading out on time is enough of a commitment without having to choose something productive to listen to that morning. Choosing in the morning can also make it more tempting to listen to something mind numbing like music or a fun podcast rather than something informative and inspirational.

Similarly, by the end of the work day your brain is tired and ready to decompress. Preparing in advance keeps you on track and from having to make tired decisions. Once you’ve decided what you want to learn about and picked a source (whether it’s a podcast, audiobook, or another medium), do as much as possible to save that source. For example, if it’s an audiobook, go ahead and download it so all that you need to do on your commute is open the app and press play. If it’s a podcast, choose an episode you want to listen to and save it to your favorites so you can easily get back to that episode without excessive scrolling. Time management on the go is easier when you’ve already made the decisions.

Another great use for your commute is planning. For example, morning commutes can be used to contemplate the day ahead. You can consider tasks that need to be accomplished, meetings ahead, and your priorities for the day. It’s a great time to get yourself in the right headspace so you’re ready to hit the ground running when you arrive at work.

The journey home can be used to reflect on the day, what you accomplished, and what you’d like to do differently in the future. It’s also a great time to decompress in preparation for being home and tackling evening responsibilities.

Mindfulness & Relaxation: A Stress-Free Commute

By the end of the day, oftentimes the most productive activity is rest. While it may seem counterproductive, using an evening commute to breath, reflect, or listen to something you enjoy helps prepare you for your evening routine. By relaxing on your commute and practicing mindful commuting to make time for yourself, you will be refreshed to handle the rest of your day. This is a great way to begin finding a work-life balance.

In summary, use these commute productivity tips to make the most of your commute:

1. Reframe how you look at your commute time into something positive

2. Use this time in a way that adds value to your day

   1. Listen to an educational book or podcast

   2. Plan and organize your time

   3. Reflect

   4. Relax

It is best to start with one or two ideas. Try out a couple that appeal to you. This isn’t an exact science, switch up your routine until you find what works best for you. 

How do you make your commute more productive? Share your favorite strategy in the comments!