|  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans spend an average of 50 minutes daily commuting to and from work. That’s almost an hour most of us don’t enjoy each day. In fact, a recent study concluded that commuting consistently makes the list of “least favorite activities.” A lot of people even call it the “worst part of the day.”
However, whether you are driving to the office or riding public transportation, commuting doesn’t have to be a drag. With a change of perspective, you can see your commute not as something you have to endure but as an opportunity to learn something new, be more productive, and even be entertained.
 Driving yourself to and from work
The Census Bureau reports that about three-quarters of Americans get to work by driving alone. If you fall into this category, you already probably listen to the radio or music CDs as you drive. But that’s not the only way to make your lone commute less boring –or, better yet, not boring at all.
Consider these options if you make your daily trek alone:
- Catch up on your reading, without reading
Listen to an audio book of that favorite bestseller you never have the time to read – or finally delve into classics you never got around to reading. Ask friends and colleagues if they have books on CDs and ask if you can exchange each other’s audio books for ones you haven’t heard yet. Another money saving tip: most public libraries offer audio books, as well as vintage comedy and radio drama shows on audio CDs, that you can check out for free.
- SING!
Whether you have a great voice or can’t hold a tune, singing along to the radio or a CD as you drive can be at least as much fun as belting out show tunes in the shower. It can also help you arrive at work more relaxed and in better spirits. In addition to the feel-good factor, studies have found that singing can increase lung capacity, boost immunity and oxygenate the blood – resulting in improved alertness.
- Learn a new language
Pick up another language by listening to audio CDs designed specifically for commuters. For example, Berlitz offers a variety of “Rush Hour” audio CDs that teach you a new language through the use of songs, entertaining storylines and an interactive approach. As you listen, you repeat phrases, answer questions and sing along. Voila! You’ll soon find yourself speaking French, Spanish or another language.
- “Attend” lectures by famous professors
Experience an adventure in learning while commuting, without any homework or exams. You can listen to hundreds of lectures by engaging professors from Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Georgetown, and other leading colleges and universities during your drive time. Offered by The Great Courses (www.thegreatcourses), you can learn about everything from ancient Greek mythology, how the brain works and the history of the world’s great religions to effective public speaking, how to appreciate art, and just about any other subject that’s ever piqued your interest.
- Catch up with friends and family on your cell phone? Not so fast…
Of course, with your cell phone at the ready, you may want to talk to friends, relatives and business associates during your commute time. But never text or key in phone numbers to make a call while driving and always use a hands-free gadget such as a Bluetooth headset or speakerphone if you use your cell phone. Remember that safety should come first when you are driving and multiple studies show chatting hands-free doesn't mean your driving won't suffer. For example, a study by University of Utah researchers published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology used a series of driving-simulation tests to determine that hands-free gabbing is just as distracting as holding a phone to your ear; it dramatically slows the reaction times of adult drivers, too. Your best bet? If at all possible, keep phone calls while you commute to a minimum.
Carpooling dos and don’ts
Despite the fact sharing a ride makes environmental sense and can add up to big savings on gas, only 10.4 percent of workers carpool with fellow commuters, according to the Census Bureau. Considering carpooling with one or more people? Have a frank discussion about some rules of the road to make sure you and your fellow commuters are good matches. For example, if you want to chat or play the radio as you drive but your passenger or passengers want to sleep, the arrangement may not work out.
Advantages to carpooling include being able to “zone out” with ear phones as you listen to podcasts or music on your iPod or other MP3 player when you’re a passenger. You can also catch up on work, use your smart phone for email and more, chat on your cell phone, make notes or practice a presentation using a tape or digita recorder – but first consider whether these activities will distract the person who’s driving.
Taking advantage of your public transportation commute
If you get to work by bus or train, background noise and the need to not disturb fellow commuters can make using your cell phone and laptop sometimes inconvenient or downright impossible. But with ear phones, you can listen to music, lectures and more. With your smart phone, you can use your commute time to text plans and schedule meetings, play word games and read and answer email. It’s also a good idea to keep a notebook handy; jotting down ideas, to-do lists and notes that can help you get a jump start on your day. Settling back with a craft such as knitting or reading a book are also great ways to de-stress as you come and go from work. |
 Sherry Baker is a writer from Atlanta, Georgia. She last wrote the article 18 Minutes a Day Can Help You Focus for Synergy. |
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