Sitting in traffic, standing at the bus stop or riding on the train. You may feel the hours, minutes and days of your commute back and forth from work is a total waste of time, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Whether you’re wanting to be more productive, learn something new or refresh your mind, here are some ways to make the most out of your morning and evening travels.
1

Start a gratitude journal

Making a list of all of the things you’re thankful for, both big and small, doesn’t take a lot of time and can help remind you of your core values. Jot it all down in a notebook, record a voice memo in your phone or make a mental list. Whatever method you choose, you’ll find that you start the day on a positive note and remain resilient to the day’s hiccups.

2

Learn a new language

Long gone are the days of torturous foreign language classes thanks to new technology. With the help of language apps, podcasts and YouTube videos, you can pick up an invaluable skill regardless of whether you drive, walk or ride to work. Plus, practicing during your daily commute will force you to stick to a schedule. You’ll be ditching Google translate in no time.

3

Listen to audiobooks

If you’re missing the days where you could spend all afternoon curled up with a good book, you’re not alone. While they may not offer the coziness of a reading nook, audiobooks are a great way to download new content into your brain. Plus, they’ll help set the tone of your day depending on what genre piques your interest.

4

Find an interesting podcast

Podcasts have increased in popularity over the past few years. Good news because it means there are podcasts available covering an incredible range of topics. Whether you need a global news update, want to learn the history of medical practices or are interested in hearing the production of popular music broken down, podcasts can inform and entertain.

5

Meditate

Not in the traditional sense of closing your eyes and emptying your mind, but you can use your commute as an opportunity to practice mindfulness. Notice the way your hands feel on the steering wheel, how your body contours into the bus seat or the texture of the sidewalk under your shoes. Study the sounds and shapes that fill the space around you. Avoid recalling memories and just feel present in the moment you’re living. You’ll be surprised at how refreshing it is.

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