A 2017 study from the University of the West of England found that “every extra minute of commute time reduces job satisfaction, leisure time satisfaction, and mental health.”
Another 2017 study from Mercer found that people with longer commutes are more likely to suffer from depressive illness, to have financial issues, to report feeling stressed by work, and suffer with obesity—and less likely to get seven hours of sleep each night.
So how can we improve our commute?
Driving is considered the most stressful way to travel to work, so if you can use a different method, it would be good.
If you have to drive:
- Set off in good time.
- Listen to a podcast or an audiobook.
- Listen to music.
- Think about things that are going really well- gratitude journaling exercises.
- Troubleshoot problems at home or work.
- Have some quiet time- turn off the radio and your phone and enjoy!
- Find a different route.
If you use public transport: All of the above.
- Plan your day. Prioritise your to-do list even if it feels like everything is important.
- Meditate or practise breathing exercises.
- Read a book.