Commuting is a daily ritual few of us like because we are stuck doing nothing as we travel to and from work. It also feels like you are wasting a part of your day and I hate to waste those precious time away.
But, there are ways to use this idle time to get some inspiration and motivation.
How?
Here are 7 ways to turn your morning commute into something productive everyday: (Something I used to do it on a daily basis before I turned to freelance)
Plan your Day
A great way to be productive in the morning is if you have a plan of action ahead of you. While it may be filled with work deadlines and other related tasks, it will definitely help you become productive.
As you commute, list all the critical tasks you have to finish and focus on how to get them done efficiently. It is also best to do the crucial tasks in the morning so you can finish it faster while you are at your best.
I do this all the time whenever I commute not only in the mornings to work.
Play Audiobooks
If you want to read a book but don’t have time to do so, why don’t you get its audiobook format?
While you travel, you can listen to the recording as it narrates the story and gets your brain whirling. Some audiobooks are language courses and learning from them can even give you a unique skill that can be an asset to your company.
I don’t really like audiobooks (because I prefer a physical copy in my hand) but I don’t mind tuning into daily news.
Catch up on your emails
Checking emails can be a tedious chore, especially if you have a lot on your plate for the rest of the day. But, if you do it while you are commuting, it would definitely reduce your workload for the day. You don’t have to answer them, organize them according to the importance and get back to them when you get to work.
Or be like me, I’d answer the emails and save as draft or for them to be scheduled to send out later when I am in the office. That way, I buy myself an extra 10 minutes to grab some breakfast in the office canteen.
Catch up on small stuff
If you are commuting by cab, Uber or other similar transportation, you can use your commuting time to catch up on small things. You can make calls, catch up with your social media and list down your tasks for the day. Even if it is just a small task, it can lessen your workload immensely.
Even as a freelancer, I do this all the time. I’ll jot down any ideas I have for MiddleMe to work on them later. Sometimes, I even write a full article for clients when I’m stuck in the traffic jam at the back of the car.
Brainstorm
Ideas can come at any moment and it is best to list them whenever it pops. While commuting, take the time to list down some ideas you can do for your company or things you can do. You should also list down how you plan to do your ideas.
Sometimes, I brainstorm what I am going to talk about in a later meeting or sometimes, I brainstorm my next surprise gift for my husband or maybe my next getaway destination!
Take time to self-reflect
Nowadays, it is very difficult to find time to do some self-reflection considering our hectic schedules.
Since you have nothing to do while commuting, why not take the time to reflect on your status? Ask yourself if you need some time to take a break if you are happy with your work, and check your goals. When you have reflected, you can adjust your activities accordingly to improve your well-being.
Listen to music
This is my favourite part. Work is stressful, especially if you find yourself facing tough deadlines. The best way to counter that stress is by starting your day with some relaxing and upbeat music. It will put you in a good mood and help you get through the day!
Conclusion
The time you have idle while
commuting has a lot of potentials to help you turn your work upside down and be a great source of inspiration. With the tips above, we are sure that you will get the motivation you need to stay productive every day.
So what is your jam? Do you plan in your head or do you prefer to daydream along the way to work? Or even better… catch some sleep during your morning commute? Share with us your stories in the comments below.
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