How to Make the Most of Your Commute

According to a recent study, the average American spends 35 minutes commuting to work every weekday. 

While this may seem like a trivial amount of time, it adds up to 152 hours — or 19 full workdays — every year.

Now imagine what you could get done in 19 full workdays. From task scheduling to familiarizing yourself with industry news and terminology, that’s valuable time for anyone in any career. If you’re someone who feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day, you need to be taking advantage of this time.

Just like you get ready for the office by brushing your teeth and getting dressed in a pristine undershirt, button down or jumper, you should also prep your mindset for a great day at work. Rather than viewing commuting as a hassle, think of it as an opportunity to get a headstart on your day. 

Whether you drive, bike, walk, or take public transportation, there are things you can do to spark motivation and set yourself up for success. 

Taking the time to prep yourself before work has a multitude of benefits. You’ll likely see an increase in productivity as you’ve scheduled out your tasks and priorities. You may also find it easier to deal with conflicts and emotional reactivity if you entered the office in a solid, positive mental state. 

Just like a perfectly-fitted undershirt makes you feel confident and well-dressed, a few minutes of prep before each workday will allow you to take on whatever comes your way. So suit up and get hustling.