Create Your Own ‘Me Time’ Commute in 2024
Posted on by Angela Canova
What is it about our daily commute that is so engrained in our lifestyle and brings us so much daily angst? Commuting is widely surveyed to be one of our least favorite activities, yet it’s considered a necessary evil. How can it be that people would “rather clean their toilets” than commute to work? Instead of dreading your commute, why not use 2024 as the year for changing your commute routine and turning commute time into “Me Time”.
Finding “Me Time” in a regular 9 am to 5 pm workday is to say the least, difficult. But maybe your “Me Time” could be to listen to podcasts while commuting. Listening to a podcast is a way to clear your mind while in the sanctuary of being “alone” on your commute. When you grab that window seat on the train or see the sun peaking over the horizon as you are riding on jam-packed public transit or even possibly sitting in slow-moving highway traffic, knowing you’ll be able to transport your mind to a different place of untroubled thoughts makes the commute worthwhile.
You’d be surprised what original understandings and well-being can be fostered on our rather daunting daily commutes. Whether it’s walking to catch public transit, using an electric bike to commute or riding in a carpool or vanpool with a group of friends, being on the go can bring clarity and contentment while ritual invites a welcome consistency. Many organizations have a commuter benefits program that prioritizes employees’s commute and work life balance. Make sure to check with your HR department to see if your organization offers such a program.
If you are still teleworking, you can create small moments of routine that can mimic the way our commutes get us ready to take on the day. Sit by the window listening to a podcast while having your morning coffee. Start the day with a short walk. Change out of your sweatpants. Play a game on your phone. Jot down your goals for the day in a planner or notebook. Establishing a routine will create a much-needed boundary between home life and work life and mental rejuvenation.
Whatever your commute, make sure to take that in-between and separation time for yourself; turning that dreaded commute into time you look forward to. You may find yourself excitedly anticipating “Me Time” every day.