Location plays a very important role when it comes to traveling to workplaces.
Commuting to faraway office locations can make us want to call in sick (almost every other day).
Starting from the ocean of commuters, the long train journeys during that morning rush, reaching the office happy and enthusiastic can become a herculean task.
So, for all those traveling long hours to reach their office, here are a few things you can do to make your journey productive.
1. Make a to-do list for the day
The best way to begin a day is by preparing your list of things that need attention.
It's best to utilize your commute time for making the list through apps like Microsoft To-Do: List, Task & Reminder. In case you're tired of typing, use Otter to do the work for you.
Now, you can complete this task either on your way to work or while returning from work as it helps you to remain focused.
2. Revert to important emails and tasks on the go
Let's admit it, during the 9 hours at work there will be many unread emails. So, reply to them while on the go.
This will help you to stay ahead productively.
Also, you can focus on other important tasks while at your workstation.
3. Follow up on the latest industry trends
It is very important to develop the habit of reading news.
Today's severe competition demands you to stay informed of the current developments.
Be it general news, or related to your industry, always stay abreast with apps like Inshorts, Flipboard, Dailyhunt, etc.
This will not only help in expanding your knowledge but also give you an idea of the skills that you need to evolve and work upon.
4. Read books and blogs
Imagine you have to travel in the metro for 2 whole hours to reach work. Did you shudder at the thought of it?
You can utilize this time to either read a really interesting blog (like this one) or catch up on that book you have been planning on finishing.
But in case you are stuck in traffic, audiobooks like Audible, Stories, Podcasts & Audibles, etc. are here to save the day.
These habits will not only make you feel more productive but will also help you keep a calm mind amidst the chaos.
5. Catch up on the latest works of your idol
We all have personalities we look up to. Some are fans of Neil Patel, while others of Jeff Bezos, and so on.
These great personalities have a series of work that you can read to stay motivated. So, utilize your commute time to read blogs by your favorite idol.
6. Take online tutorials to develop your skillset
We live in a time where cut-throat competition exists and to stay ahead in the game, you need to keep upgrading your skillset.
So, pick a course from recommended apps like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Coursera, among many to make the best use of time.
7. Listen to informational podcasts
Podcasts have become a new trend. These are extremely motivational and informational, and can also be therapeutic.
Listening to motivational podcasts helps you calm your mind be it on your way to work or after a tiring day.
Here are a few recommended apps, TED Talks, Podcast, Google Podcasts, etc.
8. Reflect on the areas in your life which need focus
We all have long-term goals. One of the benefits of a long commute is that you can reflect on your life-goals peacefully.
This will help you to track your progress and also strategize your next step.
9. Check-in with your family and friends
We all agree that work-life balance is an extremely important aspect of our lives.
Throughout the day we receive many messages from our family and friends. We must respect and reciprocate to their love and care.
So, if you have missed a call or text, catch up while commuting. This will help you to kill time and let you focus on other things when you return home.
10. Engage in brain teaser games
This may sound weird, but you can make good use of your time by playing games.
Engage in games that get your brain cells excited, such as, Sudoku, Skillz, Brain Test, etc.
This will make your commute enjoyable yet stimulate your brain, keeping your mind sharp.
11. Unwind with some meditation music
We all know that music is the best healer. Be it early morning or after a long day at work, music can soothe a soul any time.
So, put on your earphones and with great apps like Spotify and Wynk, let the relaxing music calm your mind.
12. Learning a new language
Another innovative way to kill time while commuting is by making our dreams a reality.
Let's admit it, we all have that knack to learn a new language.
Be it French, Spanish, German, anything.
Today, learning has been made so simple with online courses and mobile applications like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, etc., that excuses fall short.
Thank god for the digitization boom!
So, plug in your earphones, select a course and get set learning.
Now that you know of these amazing tricks, I hope your commute to and from work will be productive.
