The average American is spending 25 minutes commuting, and this is according to the latest census data. This doesn’t look that bad, but look at it from this point: This adds up to 4 hours a week spent on riding or driving – this is over 200 hours every year!
You don’t have to drive yourself crazy listening to the same radio songs over and over again. You should ad more time to your day by using this time well. Whether you are settled in a seated, at the wheel, or even clinging to a subway strap, the tips below are going to help you make your morning and evening hours more productive.
- Preparing for the Day Ahead
Are you going or a meeting, meeting, or presentation? If you are the one driving, you can spend this time practicing the speech you are going to deliver or answering questions. Say things out loud because it will help with delivery and tone and also boost your confidence.
If you are not on the wheel, this is a good time for strategizing on the next task on your to-do list or project. When you reach the office, you will get started with what you have planned. You can also use the time to tackle life maintenance items. Plan your meals for the week and even write your grocery shopping list (it can be even better If you pass through a grocery store on your way home).
- Reading or Listening
If you are commuting using public transport or riding in a car, then use that time to read some of the books you have always wanted to read but never gotten the time to. Not sure about how to get started or lacking inspiration? Find out the 100 best books of all time then buy the eBooks. Another option is getting a loaner from the local library. There are many places you can get good recommendations.
If you are the one driving, then pup in a CD or connect your phone to the car stereo system to listen to a lecture or show. There are many free audiobooks.
- Learning a New Skill
You most likely have that one thing you have always wanted to learn, but you haven’t gotten around it yet. Commute time can be a good time to do it because you have four hours every week. This is even better for those on a train. Some people have learned how to crotchet during their commute time. Maybe someone is going to see you learning and will offer to help you.
There are many skills you can easily learn when commuting. If you are riding, apps like Lumosity can help in boosting your brainpower and enhancing your memory. Even playing games from Legitimatecasino.com can be a good option. If you are driving a car, then try learning a new language. There are many language courses that have been designed for your situation.
- Getting to Know Someone
Are you stuck in a subway stop waiting for your ride? Talk to someone. Striking up a conversation with a stranger can be intimidating (especially if it is someone you see every day), but try it. There are many ways to start a conversation. Some of them include the book they are reading that you have read or interested in or a common stop. Something you can always fall back on is current or local events.
If you are the one driving, then the only person you can talk to is the one in the next lane. To make use of your commute time, connect to Bluetooth and make short calls (making a reservation in a restaurant you have always been interested in) or those long conversations you always avoid because you don’t have enough time.
- Catching Up on sleep
If it is a long commute, you most likely have to wake up early and get home late. If you are not driving, then use that time to take a nap to energize yourself. If you are on a train or bus, make sure you set an alarm or ask a fellow traveler to wake you up when you get to your stop.
