The Smooth Commute: Making the Most Out of Your Time on the Move

Even if you enjoy the office, the process of getting there can sometimes be a bit of a drag. But what if your trek to work doesn't have to be a total downer? That’s right, with a little tweak in perspective and some planning, you can turn that ‘dead time’ into something productive and, dare I say, enjoyable!

Actually Do Some Work

With your laptop/tablet handy, you might be able to get some work done. If you’re on the train, have a seat, and have half an hour or more undisturbed, why not use the time to actually be productive? At the very least catch up on some of those minor tasks that never get done, or perform that clearout of your inbox prior to arriving at the office. If you’ve got a side hustle of some sort, this is another great time to do some of that work before you start your day job.

Rehearse and Rock It

Use your travel time to prep for presentations or meetings. Practice makes perfect. If you’re driving, you could even record yourself to fine-tune your delivery later.

Think It Through

OK, you don’t want to see those emails? Start your day with a mental warm-up instead. Before you hit the road/train, take a peek at your calendar. Got a big project or meeting coming up? Use your commute to do some blue sky thinking/brainstorming. Pop on a podcast or an audiobook related to your work, and see if you can make those creative juices flow. Plus, did you know that mornings are prime time for decision-making? Who knows what great new ideas you'll come up with if you give yourself a chance!

Podcast Power

Learning on the go is super easy with podcasts. Find a few that speak to your field or help sharpen your skills. Mix it up with some fun ones too. Many podcast episodes are 15-30 minutes long, which is the perfect duration for the typical commute.

Ever thought about picking up a new language? Commutes are the perfect opportunity to dive into apps like Duolingo or learner podcasts in the language you want to study. It’s a fantastic skill for your career and a great way to keep your brain sharp.

Meditate and Mellow Out

On the other hand, how about tuning out for a bit? Commutes can actually the perfect time for a little ‘zen’. If you need some guidance, there are lots of meditation apps offer sessions that can help you start your day stress-free. Even just 10 minutes of deep breathing can work wonders for your anxiety levels.

Something else you could do is start your day on a positive note by counting your blessings! Reflecting on what you’re thankful for can seriously boost your mood. Set your intentions for the day, and on your way back, reflect on what you’ve learned and enjoyed.

Chit-Chat Challenge

OK, this isn’t for everyone and definitely not for every city (!), but who says commutes have to be lonely? Strike up a conversation with a fellow traveller or, if you're driving, catch up with friends hands-free. It's a great way to boost your social skills and energise your morning.

Route Remix

Shake things up by taking a different route to work. New sights can spark new ideas and keep your brain engaged. Plus, you might even save on petrol!