Do you find yourself feeling like there’s not enough time in the day to do the things you’ve been meaning to do for the past week, month, or even year? We all dread the drive or bus/train ride to and from work, but instead of looking at it negatively, you should look to fill your commute time with something more productive than driving or people-watching. Try out some of these ways to multi-task during your daily commute and check something new off your to-do list.
1. Educational audio
Have you ever wanted to expand your mind and dive deeper into subjects that are holding you back from reaching your full creative potential? You can self-improve during your commute by listening to educational tapes or podcasts that relate to an area of interest. There are even full university courses available online through iTunesU if you’ve been fantasizing about going back to school! If you’re looking for something more fun, though, you can download audiobooks from places like Audible, Amazon, and Librivox to squeeze some more reading time into your life. Whatever is holding you back, this is a perfect time to start breaking through that barrier.
2. Coordinate a creative meeting
You are not the only one who may be looking to fill your commute time with something more productive: ask your coworkers if they are interested in jumping on a group call to bounce creative ideas off each other. If you were up all night in anticipation to pitch an idea for a big move at work or at home, then this would be an easy time to do so. Having a meaningful meeting before you walk into the workplace is as productive as it gets!
3. Listen to the news
Instead of spending the first half hour of your day at work looking at the news and being unproductive, use your time in-transit to listen to current events. If you can get a good grasp of the morning news, then you won’t feel so out of touch with the outside world. Get your daily fix out of the way so that you can arrive to work and be productive right away.
4. To-do list
Think about what you need to do for the day and the items that have been lingering on your to-do list. Figure out a plan of action as to how you’re going to get them done. Instead of realizing everything you need to do when you get into work, spend your commute mentally preparing yourself for the best ways to tackle the things on your list that day. This will make you feel less flustered when you arrive at work, and you can walk in already feeling prepared and at ease.
5. Unwind with music and the view
If you are like most people in today’s environment, then you are constantly engaged with a computer screen, answering emails, on the phone with clients or dealing with personal errands and responsibilities. Your commute could be the time to just enjoy the view and relax. We all need a break, and it’s hard to fit in alone-time to just unwind and recharge. I personally like to revert to country music and the view on my commute when things get hectic – don’t laugh. For me, the combination has a way of telling a story and keeping me humble to what truly matters. Insert your favorite type of music that has a way of bringing you to peace with your surroundings and enjoy the ride.
Whether you drive to work or take public transportation, you can find a way to incorporate these along with other tasks you have been meaning to tackle. We’ve all used the excuse that there isn’t enough time in the day, but there is always enough time – sometimes you just have to make it.
Krista is a Creative Circle candidate, creative writer and content creator in Los Angeles. Her background includes news, marketing, copywriting and editing. If you are interested in working with Krista, please contact Creative Circle LA.
