We spend more than a year of our life on average going to and from work. That’s more than 13,000 hours that we’re crammed on a crowded train or bus. Since we spend lots of time commuting, it’s time to start making the best of the situation.

Here are a few ways to make the most of your daily commute:

Connect and Network with People

Who can you connect with on your commute? You’re all on your way to work, so now could be an excellent time to network. And if you’re not among other people, you’re probably near your phone; call a buddy! Connect with someone in another time zone if you have to commute at odd hours. Alternatively, find another ungodly-hour commuter and contact that individual. A socially connected individual is happier and more likely to thrive at work.

Listening to Music

There’s nothing better than starting the day with some lively music. Don’t feel obligated to be productive throughout your journey; you may also use this time to enjoy yourself and relax. Sing your favorite songs, laugh at the morning DJ’s jokes, and have fun. Your excellent attitude will continue over to the office, and you won’t know why you’re so joyful, but it was most likely the high-energy vehicle journey that got you revved up.

Work on a project using a voice recorder

A voice recorder allows you to record audio through the microphone on your phone. Save and download your voice recordings as files, or share them with friends and colleagues via text or email. Check out the excellent voice recorder by VEED with simple-to-use software that works on windows pc, mac, android, iPhone, and pretty much any modern operating system. What I like best is I can create an automatic text transcription of my notes, phone interviews, and writing an article out loud in the early stages.

Learning a New Language

Learning to speak another language is one of the most coveted yet difficult goals for many individuals. Those who do not have access to a professional teacher or the time to attend courses may find that their daily commute might be the most valuable ally in learning a new language.

Making a Mental Checklist

Although you can’t physically compose a to-do list while driving, you can still perform some mental work while traveling to and from work. Make a mental list of everything you want to get done during the day. Choose a number that works well for you, such as five things at most that will assist you in cutting through the mental clutter and focusing on the most critical tasks at hand.

Listening to Podcasts

Podcasts are a terrific way to pass the time and keep yourself entertained, whether commuting to work or riding the bus or train. It’s also a fantastic method to be productive because so many exciting talks may get you motivated for the day ahead—for instance, a podcast for women. The I Heart my Life is a podcast on personal growth that all women can relate to. The following is a quote from the podcast’s site “but make no mistake, this isn’t about settling for where you’re at now. This is about stepping into something more incredible than you could ever have imagined.”

Meditation

Be in the current moment. You don’t need any special equipment or procedures. Be where you are, take a few deep breaths, and even close your eyes. Your brain needs its rest.

Leave at Least Fifteen Minutes Earlier

Allow yourself some additional time so you aren’t continually rushing to be on time. If you can take your time, you can stay a little longer. Take a seat and enjoy a latte. Alternatively, relish the fact that you will not be alarmed if you happen to run into traffic. Slowing down may be a great way to begin your day.

Share a Ride

For many people, spending numerous hours alone in a car each day can be lonely and monotonous. So, instead of driving alone, share the road with another person. Use the time to practice your following proposal, pitch, or discuss your most current thoughts with the other individual. Plus, you can cost-share on gas costs.

Tolerance Practice

People can be bothersome at times, yet we must deal with people we do not necessarily interact with daily. Getting angry is a complete waste of time and energy; therefore, learning to notice when your irritation levels grow will benefit you in all aspects of your life.

Brainstorming Solutions to Your Problems

Use the time to think about or solve difficulties at home or work. Take advantage of your time alone with your thoughts and begin strategizing. You never know when the following big answer will come to you while you’re just zoning out and giving your brain a vacation as you travel.

Final Thoughts

Commuting is an unavoidable part of many of our working lives, but it doesn’t have to be something we dread. These tips will help you make the most of your commute, and your commute will soon become a positive start and end to your working day.