I drive approximately two hours a day to get to and from work. But something tells me I’m not the only one. Whether you get to work via car, train, boat or private jet (wouldn’t that be cool?!), I believe this post will be useful to you. Instead of complaining about your commute, you could use that time to be productive. Some days I’ll listen to a podcast, while others I just listen to music and sing karaoke by myself. It depends on my mood. Either way, your drive to and from work can be therapeutic. Below are five ways to make your commute better. 

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1. Listen to Podcasts

I have to admit, I hopped on the podcast wagon after listening to the first season of Serial. {Side note: is anyone else totally bored with season two?!} I love listening to self-growth, business and entrepreneur podcasts. Some of my favorites include: The Lively Show, Beauty Inside Out with Kimberly Snyder, The 5AM Miracle, The EntreLeadership Podcast, ProBlogger Podcast, and Undisclosed – although season one just ended. 

2. Plan Ahead

If you have a lot of time commuting to and from work in the morning, use this time to plan ahead. I’m a huge list-maker, so mental to-do lists are my thing. I mentioned before that I love brainstorming in the car. I get tons of blog post ideas from sitting in traffic! 

3. “Read” Books

If you take a train to work, you’re probably already reading on your commute. But what about us ladies who have to drive? Your solution is an audiobook. I downloaded Audible a few months ago and listened to Troublemaker by Leah Remini, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz all during my commutes to and from work. Although all three are great books, my favorite HAD to be Troublemaker. Leah is the narrator and is so entertaining. OMG, I’ve recommended this book to everyone. My sister bought the hardback version and finished it so quickly – and it isn’t a short book! 

4. Breathe

Okay, you’re probably thinking, “Duh, Nicole. I’m always breathing.” Yes, that’s true. But your commute is a great time to really focus on your breathing. Inhale for 4 seconds and exhale for 6. If that’s easy for you, try increasing to 6 in and 8 out. The most important thing is that the exhale is longer than the inhale. 

5. Unplug & Just Be

Your commute might be the only part of your day when you can disconnect. At least once a week, I’m so drained that the only thing I want to do in the car is just relax. Just me and my thoughts. It’s a great time for reflection and meditation. I put my phone in the backseat so I’m less tempted to turn on music or a podcast. 

Talk to Me

• What do you like to do on your commute?
• Do you drive to work? Take a train?
• How long is your commute?