If you’ve ever had a long commute to get to work, you’re probably well aware of the downsides. It adds extra time to your workday, traffic can add extra stress, and there are factors you can’t control that can make you late for work. In addition to those things, there’s also the reality that having your car is likely to have mechanical issues pop up more frequently when you have a long commute, and when they do, it can derail your day, if not an entire week. To help alleviate some of the stress and difficulty that inherently comes with a long commute, here are some ideas to make it easier.
Give Yourself Time
There’s an idea that a lot of commuters have that you can make up time on the road if you’re running late. This is never a good idea. Not only will it put added stress on your drive, but it also means that you’ll have to drive faster and more aggressively to get to work on time. Try to get into a routine in which you wake up with plenty of time to prepare for your workday and leave yourself some extra time when accounting for your commute. Having to rush around in the morning, possibly skip breakfast, and then drive faster than you normally would all adds up to a stressful start to the day before you even arrive at work.
Keep Your Vehicle In Good Shape
We mentioned the fact that a longer commute can cause car problems more frequently than normal because of the extra miles you’re putting on it. Since your car is essential to getting you to and from work, you must keep it well-maintained and get all the necessary services in a time-appropriate manner. If you’re due for an oil change or a tune-up, stay on schedule so that you have reliable moving when you need it. Likewise, it can be helpful if you keep your car tidy so that you’re not stepping into a mess before you start your workday. It may not seem like much, but the extra clutter of fast-food wrappers, water bottles, and soda cups can add stress to your day before it even starts.
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Make It Enjoyable
Whatever you can do to safely make your commute more comfortable and enjoyable, you should do it. Whether that means listening to your favorite music, podcast, or audiobook, there are plenty of ways to pass the time pleasantly while on your way to work. Having something to snack on and something to drink is another good idea since you’ll be on the road for a while. Whether you need your morning coffee, or a bottle of water on the way to work, make sure it’s available. As far as snacks are concerned, don’t get too complex with it since you do need to focus on the road. Something that you can eat casually like snack crackers, trail mix, or nuts are a good choice.
Carpooling & Public Hauling
If you have an option to get to work without driving, give it a try. That could mean taking public carrying if it’s available in your area or joining a carpool from your workplace or office building. Not having to focus on the road while commuting can free you up to do other things and make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful. If you find that it doesn’t work for you, then you can always go back to your traditional commuting routine.
Gas Reward Programs
Commuting requires a lot of gas and there are ways to save money when you’re at the pump, especially if you need to gas up with the frequency required by long daily drives. Consider joining a gas rewards program offered by certain gas stations if you go to one particular option regularly. While it may not seem like saving a few cents per gallon every couple of weeks matters much, it does add up in the long run. Another option would be to use a credit card for gas that offers rewards so that you get some benefit when filling up as often as you do.