Making the Most of Your Commute

It might not be your favorite part of the day, but it doesn’t have to be the worst.

Whether it’s 20 minutes or an hour each way, commuting is one of those unavoidable parts of working life that we love to complain about, and for good reason. It’s time-consuming, exhausting, and often feels like lost time that we’ll never get back.

But what if your commute could actually work for you?

With a little intention, the time you spend in your car, on the train, or walking to the office doesn’t have to feel like a drain. It can become a space to recharge, reflect, or enjoy a sliver of peace in the middle of a chaotic day. Here are a few ways to make the most of it!

Let it be a buffer

One of the underrated things about commuting is that it gives your brain a natural “reset” between work and the rest of your life. If you’ve ever worked remotely and struggled to mentally leave work at the end of the day, you know how real this is. The commute can also be a boundary. It helps separate the versions of ourselves we bring into different spaces. Whether it’s music, silence, a podcast, or just zoning out, letting yourself mentally shift gears during that time can actually make a big difference.

Use the time to actually enjoy something

Podcasts and audiobooks are probably the most common go-to. They’re low-effort and can completely change the tone of your commute. Some people use that time to learn something new or finally get through a book they’ve been meaning to read. Others just want to laugh at something or listen to someone tell a story that has nothing to do with their own life. Either way, it’s your time. Pick something that makes it feel like yours!

Don’t feel like you have to be “productive”

There’s pressure to constantly optimize every minute of the day. Your commute doesn’t always have to be some magical growth moment. If you're tired and just want to exist for a bit, that’s completely fine. Scroll, sit in silence, blast your favorite song; it's not about doing it “right,” it’s just about finding what works for you.

Switch it up now and then

Don't miss this! If the same routine is making you feel stuck, try switching something: your route, the time you leave, your playlist, or your coffee stop. Even small changes can help break up the monotony.

If you're on public transit, maybe you save a book or playlist just for your commute. If you drive, maybe there's a podcast that makes you feel like you're starting or ending your day with a familiar voice. If you walk or bike, try changing up your path or intentionally leaving your headphones out for a day.

We spend so much time moving between places, and if the commute has to be part of your day, you might as well make it feel like time you chose.

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