Making the Most of Your Transit Commute Time

June is Transportation Choices’ Ride Transit Month! All month long, agencies, organizations, and riders across the state will be coming together for fun events and activities as we celebrate transit together. Join in on the fun by celebrating Ride Transit Month! This year’s theme is Let’s Ride, Washington and we hope you will take the pledge and get on board.

For many people, the daily commute is often seen as unproductive time spent stuck in traffic. However, with a little creativity and planning, your transit or vanpool journey can be transformed into a valuable opportunity for personal productivity. In this blog post, we will explore various strategies and tips to help you make the most of your commute time when you’re not driving alone, turning it into a productive and fulfilling part of your day.

1. Set Goals and Prioritize
Before embarking on your transit journey, take a moment to define your goals for the day. What tasks or activities would you like to accomplish? Prioritize them based on urgency or importance. This will provide you with a clear focus and a sense of direction, making your commute more purposeful.

2. Plan Ahead
Utilize your commute time more effectively by planning ahead. If you have a specific project or task in mind, gather the necessary materials, such as documents or reference materials, before you leave home. This preparation will allow you to dive right into your work on the bus or in your vanpool without wasting time searching for resources.

3. Catch up on Reading
One of the simplest ways to make your commute productive is to catch up on your reading. Whether it's books, articles, or industry reports, carrying reading material with you can turn your commute into an opportunity for continuous learning and personal growth. Consider e-books or audiobooks for convenience, or even subscribe to newsletters or podcasts relevant to your interests or profession.

4. Learn a New Skill or Language
Transform your commute into a mobile classroom by using language learning apps or educational podcasts. Whether you're interested in learning a new language, improving your coding skills, or gaining knowledge in a specific field, there are numerous resources available that can help you make progress during your commute.

5. Create a To-Do List or Journal
Take advantage of your commute time to organize your thoughts and tasks. Use a notebook, a task management app, or a digital journal to jot down ideas, create to-do lists, or reflect on your day. This practice not only helps you stay organized but also promotes self-reflection and mindfulness.

6. Listen to Inspiring Content
Make your transit time uplifting and motivational by listening to inspiring podcasts, TED Talks, or audio books. Engaging with positive and thought-provoking content can help spark creativity, provide new perspectives, and keep you motivated throughout the day.

7. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
Commuting can often be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Use your transit time as an opportunity to practice mindfulness or meditation. There are numerous apps available that offer guided meditation sessions tailored to various time durations. These practices can help you cultivate calmness, reduce stress, and start your day with a clear and focused mind

8. Log Your Trip to Earn Rewards
Just sit back and relax because through Choose Your Way Bellevue Rewards, you can earn $50 gift cards for Hulu, Spotify, Orca, REI, and more by logging your first 25 non-drive-alone trips. 

Your commute doesn't have to be wasted time; it can be transformed into a valuable period of productivity and personal growth. By setting goals, planning ahead, and utilizing the resources available, you can make the most of your transit time and optimize your daily routine. Remember, every minute counts, and with a proactive mindset, you can turn your commute into a productive and fulfilling part of your day. Embrace the possibilities and make your transit journey work for you.

-Choose Your Way staffer Jake