Does your commute to work take up a lot of your valuable time? Many people are spending a lot of time getting to and from work, running errands, or driving their kids from one activity to another. The good news is that there are ways to make use of the time without letting it go to waste. The next time you drive to work, try one of these seven activities that can help you be productive (without distraction) while you drive.
- Listen to a podcast or audiobook.
What’s a topic you want to learn more about? Whatever topic you choose, there’s a podcast or audiobook for it. Use your time wisely to expand your mind on something you otherwise have trouble finding time for.
- Review articles or proofread your writing.
Did you know that you can convert text to mp3? This opens the doors for what’s possible on your drive time. If you need to read an article for work, it’s easy to convert it into an audio file and listen to it instead. This is also handy when you need to proofread something you’ve written. Not only can you safely do it while driving, but listening to it rather than reading it is more effective in catching mistakes or words that don’t flow well.
- Learn a language.
There are so many language learning tools these days, and most of them have audio components. Find an audio series that you can listen to and practice out loud on your drive. You’ll be multilingual in no time!
- Have a meeting with yourself.
It might sound silly, but use your time to brainstorm new ideas and think through your day. Use the voice recorder on your smartphone to record your brainstorm. There have actually been studies done that show thinking aloud improves problem-solving abilities and allows for better solutions than just thinking through a problem in your head.
- Make phone calls.
If you have a BlueTooth system in your car, it might be the perfect time to schedule some early or late calls. This could work particularly well if you are talking to someone in a different time zone. For example, if you are driving at 7 AM and you’re in California, it might be just the right time to talk to a client in Georgia (where it’s 10 AM).
- Get centered.
Having a little drive time before work is a great opportunity to assess how you’re feeling and get prepared mentally for a productive day. Leave enough time for your drive so that you don’t feel rushed or stressed by traffic. And on your way home, reflect on the successes of the day.
- Boost your mood.
Music is a favorite way to pass the time in the car, but be sure to choose the kind that makes you happy. Take a few minutes at home to make a playlist or two of your favorite songs.
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Your drive time doesn’t have to go to waste. Try one of these ideas next time you get in the car.
