Commuting to work can be monotonous. Especially, if you’re stuck in traffic more often than not. According to Census.gov, 77% of workers drive to work and 68% of workers drive alone. So, how can you make your commute to work more enjoyable? Here are 6 tips to help you enjoy your drive.
1. Find a Podcast
Listening to a podcast can help improve your mood. Plus, you’ll probably learn new things. Listening to podcasts stimulates your brain and releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter. You will also feel more connected to the host and community that shares your interests, eliminating some of the isolation you may feel during your commute.
2. Practice Exercises
It may sound funny, but small movements while you are driving can help you relax and improve your circulation. While sitting in traffic, you can gently roll your shoulders or flex your fingers. You can also try tightening and relaxing isolated muscles like your glutes. Breathing exercises, like breathing deeply through your nose and out through your mouth can help you destress.
3. Watch Your Posture
During a long commute, it’s easy to forget about maintaining a good posture. Maintaining good posture is important for distributing body weight evenly and preventing aches and pains. No one wants to start off their work day with a sore back or neck! You should never drive with your hips lower than your knees. Additionally, your neck should be upright, with the center of the back of your head touching the center of the headrest.
4. Get Organized
One of the most stressful parts about commuting is always feeling like you’re going to be late for work. So, to make your commute more bearable give yourself plenty of time. This might mean you need to lay out your work clothes the night before and pack your lunch. The more organized you are, the less you’ll feel panicked and you’ll be ready for unexpected traffic.
5. Shift Your Mindset
During your commute, it may be helpful to adopt a me-time attitude. This is your time to do whatever you want without distractions. If you’re a parent, you may not have the time to read a book. But during your commute, you could listen to an audiobook that interests you. When you shift your mindset, your commute will become more enjoyable.
6. Negotiate Different Hours
If you are spending copious amounts of time in the car, consider negotiating different hours with your boss. Maybe you can come in an hour earlier and leave an hour earlier to beat the traffic. If you are more productive, your boss may be flexible. This can make a huge difference in your mental health and well-being.
Finding Work-Life Balance
Our time is precious and it’s often hard to find a work-life balance. Adding in a stressful commute can make the workday that much harder. By adopting some of these tips to make your commute more bearable, hopefully, you can improve your day overall.