If you’re like me and constantly find yourself stuck in the car for long periods of time then you know how boring it can get. Some of us have to take a daily commute to work or school and the time in the car just doesn’t seem to lessen. My usual commute is 45-minutes to an hour every day five days a week. Let me tell you, after listening to Drake’s album three days in a row you kind of start cringing a little when you hear someone say, “Baby I like your style.” Playlists get old really quick and the number of times you being hitting “skip” is unbelievable. So for all my fellow commuters out there, here are some ideas on how you can make car rides a little bit more bearable.
1. Phone a friend
This idea may come across as very obvious, but so many of us forget that it’s actually an option. I cannot begin to tell you how many times I have been bored in traffic and did not think of calling someone. When you’re alone in your car sometimes all you need is a little company. So next time try calling a few people; your mom, dad, grandparent, friend, etc., anyone! It will definitely kill some time!
2. Read a book
So you know that line that you keep repeating, “Man I really want to read that book, I just don’t have the time!” Well, that time spent in the car complaining about the traffic is the perfect opportunity to do so. It is 2016 and there are thousands of audiobooks that you can choose from; all you have to do is to search for one that interests you. So instead of being stuck in a boring commute you can be invested in a story that will take you out of this world.
3. Listen to a podcast
You know that strange purple app that comes with every apple device? Yeah, that one that you never click on; well nows the perfect time. Let’s say you’re not necessarily a book person because you zone out a lot; maybe you just need to feel like someone's talking directly to you. Well, podcasts make a perfect option. I am not just saying this to throw an idea into the void, I actually do this myself. There are so many to choose from, there has to be one that will be a perfect fit. Just give it a shot I promise it’ll be worth it! If you need a recommendation, listen to Millennial! It’s a recent discovery of mine and I can’t get enough!
Disclaimer: You don't have to have an apple device, there are many other apps and/or websites that allow you to stream podcasts!
4. Meditate
If you’re the type to be really frustrated while traveling, then maybe this tip will resonate with you. Try turning everything off and drive in silence. Take this time to reflect, think, and even talk. Sometimes talking to yourself out loud about things going on in your life can really help. Don’t be so negative while in the car, use this time as an opportunity to really do some self-evaluating. You can even take it to the extent of searching for a meditation playlist and listen to it in the car. It may sound strange, but try it!
5. Find a “new music” playlist
After listening to the same artist over and over again, their music may begin to seem lackluster. So go on Apple Music or Spotify or even the radio and listen to playlists or stations that you’ve never listened to before. You might find a new genre that really piques your interest! Also, don't be afraid to have a little dance party in your car!
6. Get some work done!
Time spent in a vehicle doesn’t have to be “wasted time.” You can actually use it for your own benefit depending on the amount of time you have in a car. If you have a job that requires you to make business calls, then schedule them for the time that you spend driving (that is if you don’t have to take notes of course). Or if you have to make doctor appointments, schedule them while driving. The options are endless, all it take is just a little bit of creativity.
Now, driving is serious business. So if you choose to try any of these tips it is important that you do so while taking precaution. If you’re going to make a call, opt for using speaker phone. Don’t put yourself and others in danger for a simple device. Now next time you’re bored on the road, remember these tips! I’m sure one of them will come in handy!
