Did you know in the U.S, the average, one-way commute time is 26 minutes? A 26-mile one-way commute, five days per week, adds up to over four hours per week and over 200 hours (about nine days) per year. And that is just for a 26-minute one-way commute! Imagine if you are one of the many Americans whose commute is even longer…
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are finding ourselves working from home fulltime while self-isolating and social-distancing. We have stumbled upon a new reality of life without a commute (unless you’re counting how long it takes to get from your bed to your home workspace). With our commutes out of the equation, we can repurpose the time we would spend commuting to instead do some of the things we enjoy.
We pulled together a few ideas for you to try out during your typical “commute time” to help contribute to a more productive and happy day at home.
Morning Commute Time
Stretch
Stretching is a great way to wake-up in the morning, and with some extra time, you can really enjoy a relaxing morning stretch session. By stretching first thing in the morning, you are waking up your brain and body, making it easier to get up and get going. Some perks include increased flexibility, sore muscle relief, improved digestion, and improvement of overall health. Get started by trying out these helpful stretches from healthline.
Set your Goals for the Day
Reflect on what needs to be done and set your goals accordingly. This time could be used to get yourself set-up for a successful day in your home office. Getting prepared first thing in the morning helps you to take on the day, while also limiting the distraction of getting sidetracked and when remembering things that you need to do.
Productive Meditation
While many of us are not used to working from home, staying productive and on task can be a challenge. Productive Meditation is a tool to keep in your back pocket. What is Productive Meditation? Productive Meditation is a period when you’re walking, running, biking, etc. and leveraged to focus solely on one well-defined problem. The goal is to solve the issue you are thinking about. This simple exercise is known to “supercharge” your brain and get you focused quickly, all while solving problems that may be weighing on you.
Take a Mindful Moment
Take some time before you jump into your work to practice mindfulness. It can be as simple as sitting on your porch and embracing fresh air or doing a quick guided mediation podcast. Take a minute to center yourself for the day to come. A little goes a long way when it comes to mindfulness.
Enjoy Quality YOU Time
The thought of extra sleep in the morning is nice, especially if you share your home with a roommate, spouse, or children. Having the house to yourself in the mornings to regroup might be just what you need to start your day on the right foot.
Afternoon Commute Time
Outline the Next Day
Your time to close out your workday and get prepared to start fresh tomorrow. With your commute out of the picture, you have time to take it slow instead of rushing out the door to beat the afternoon traffic. Here are some tips: jot down where you are leaving off, make a list with outstanding tasks, check your calendar for the next day, throw out any old papers or trash, and set any meetings or reminders. You will thank yourself in the morning.
Get Some Fresh Air
Fresh air is an essential part of life, especially for the average desk worker. Between a 40-hour workweek and a round-trip commute, finding time to get outside can be a challenge. But without your commute on the agenda, take some time to get outside and enjoy the impending spring weather.
Cook Something New
Whether you’re a hesitant beginner or a regular in the kitchen, all of us have felt overwhelmed by what to cook on a busy weeknight. Enjoy your typical afternoon commute time to try out that Food Network recipe you’ve been eyeing, master your bread-making skills, make cookies with the kids, the options are truly endless.
Take a Class
Is there a new skill that you are eager to learn, but just haven’t found the time? Maybe there is an online class that you’ve wanted to take but just haven’t acted on it. Sign up and use your afternoon commute time to expand your mind! We hope these tips help you are you navigate life at home full-time!