How to Make Your Commute Better

I recently started a new job as a market research analyst, which I love. It’s the best matched marketing job I’ve had since I got MBA. The only bad thing is the 45-60 minute commute. I grew up in a small town that was 4 miles wide, so I didn’t know what a commute was and frankly, I figured I would hate it. Part of why I didn’t want to drive so far for a job is that is terrible for the environment. After almost two years of living in Tacoma I realized that it is extremely hard to find marketing jobs with my skill set and experience. So, I am happy to drive for a job I’ll love.

These are my tips for making the commute more enjoyable:

• Listen to a “book on tape”. I’m one of those people who says this even though it’s on CD. Libraries have great selections of free audiobooks. Right now I’m listening to, “I’ve Got Your Number: A Novel” by Sophie Kinsella.
• Call your parents, friends, and family. Talking to someone really helps the drive go by quickly. You might as well do two things at once! (Remember go hands-free with something like a Jawbone Era Bluetooth Headset).
• Learn something new. Podcasts are an excellent way to get the latest information on your favorite topics and brush up on your knowledge.
• Drink your morning coffee. My favorite part of the morning will always be drinking coffee. Just because I’m drinking it in my car instead of at my desk, doesn’t mean it is less enjoyable. Actually I like it more because I don’t have to be working yet.
• Eat breakfast. We’re always crunched for time, so it makes sense to bring breakfast with me. I prep my meals on Sunday before the work week so I have handy meals all week. See my Breakfast Bites board on Pinterest for some ideas.
• Plan your work day: Choose 3 most important things that you need to achieve in that day and do it!
• Set life goals. Yes, this sounds quite ambitious, but the car is a great time to reflect on what truly makes you happy and what you want to do in life.