19 Ways to Make Your Commute Work for You

Author: Mike Scaletti

Making the Most of Travel Time

Whether you drive, bike, ride public transportation, or walk, commuting is a regular part of life for many people. But instead of seeing this time as something to simply get through, what if we saw it as a chance to make our lives better? Most of us spend several hours a week commuting, and that time adds up fast. With the right mindset, your commute can become a powerful part of your daily routine.

Instead of scrolling through social media or staring out the window, think of this time as a chance to grow, think, and plan. Whether you want to improve your mental health, build new skills, or just use your time more wisely, these tips will help you get the most out of your commute. Try a few and see how even small changes can have a big effect on your day.

Ways to Make Your Commute More Productive

1. Listen to Educational Podcasts

Podcasts are perfect for learning on the go. There are episodes on almost every topic: science, business, health, storytelling, or even personal growth. You can choose short episodes that fit your schedule or dive into a series that covers a big idea.

2. Enjoy Audiobooks

Audiobooks let you listen to stories, biographies, and nonfiction books without needing to sit and read. This is great for busy people who still want to enjoy literature or learn from experts. Try fiction to escape into a story or nonfiction to sharpen your thinking.

3. Try Mindfulness or Meditation

If you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, mindfulness can help. Listening to guided meditation while on the train or bus can help you relax. Even taking a few minutes to breathe deeply or stay present can make a difference in your mood and focus.

4. Practice a New Language

Learning a new language takes time, but practicing for even 10 minutes a day can help. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or Babbel make it fun and easy to pick up a few new words or phrases. If you have headphones, you can listen to language podcasts or lessons and repeat phrases out loud.

5. Plan Your Day

Instead of jumping into your day without direction, use your commute to think ahead. What do you need to get done? What’s most important? Writing a quick to-do list or thinking through your top goals can set a positive, focused tone.

6. Reflect or Journal

Think about how things are going in your life. Are you meeting your goals? How do you feel about your relationships or schoolwork? You can use a journal app or voice recording to capture your thoughts. Reflecting like this builds self-awareness and helps you grow.

7. Be Creative

Creative thinking doesn’t always need a pencil or computer. Use this time to brainstorm ideas for a story, a school project, a business plan, or even your next social media post. Keep a notebook or note-taking app handy so you don’t forget your best ideas.

8. Get Motivated

Listen to speakers or podcasts that make you feel excited about your day. Some people like positive affirmations, while others enjoy real stories about people who have overcome challenges. These can help you stay focused and energized.

9. Read Articles or Books

Apps like Kindle, Pocket, or Apple News let you read articles or ebooks from your phone or tablet. Pick a few things you’ve been meaning to read and use your commute to catch up. If you’re short on time, even reading a short article is worth it.

10. Check In with Friends or Family

Relationships need time and effort to stay strong. Use this time to send a message to a friend, say hi to a family member, or respond to someone you’ve been meaning to talk to. A quick text can brighten someone’s day and help you stay close.

11. Clean Up Your Digital Life

Go through your photos and delete duplicates, clean out your email inbox, or organize your files. These small tasks may seem boring, but they make your devices easier to use and help you feel more organized.

12. Set Goals

What do you want to accomplish in the next week, month, or year? Whether it’s saving money, improving your grades, or learning something new, writing down your goals can help keep you on track. Review them regularly to stay focused.

13. Think About What You're Grateful For

Practicing gratitude can lift your mood and help you see the good in your life. Try thinking of three things you're grateful for each morning or evening. They can be small, like a kind word from a friend or a sunny day.

14. Listen to Music That Fits Your Mood

Create playlists for different parts of your day. Need energy? Play fast, upbeat songs. Need to wind down? Try soft, calming music. Music can shift your mood quickly and help you enjoy your commute more.

15. Move a Little More

If you can walk, bike, or take the stairs, that’s already a great start. Try parking a little farther from your destination or getting off the bus one stop early. Small changes like these can add up to better health over time.

16. Take a Mobile Class

Websites like Khan Academy, Coursera, or Skillshare let you take classes right from your phone. You can learn anything from photography to computer coding. Even watching a short video can teach you something new.

17. Listen to Quick News Updates

You can stay informed by listening to short news briefings from trusted sources. This helps you stay aware of what’s happening without getting overwhelmed. Pick one or two sources you trust and keep it short.

18. Play Word or Brain Games

Apps like Wordscapes, Sudoku, or memory puzzles are fun and keep your brain sharp. These games improve vocabulary, focus, and critical thinking while helping the time go by faster.

19. Plan Your Meals or Shopping List

Use your commute to think about meals for the week. What groceries do you need? What healthy snacks can you pack? Planning ahead saves time later and helps you make better choices.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Your commute doesn’t have to be time you just "get through." With a little planning and creativity, you can turn it into a part of your day that helps you learn, grow, and take better care of yourself.

Try It Out

Start small. Pick two or three ideas that sound interesting and try them out this week. Notice how they change your mood, your energy, or your focus. The more you put into your commute, the more you can get out of it.