As I combed my calendar and daily schedule for some gaps, I came across a great discovery. Monday through Friday, I have a fairly consistent block of time with no appointments or requirements. My daily commute is ripe for the picking.

If you are at all like me, then you’re looking for ways to get ahead and make the most of every minute. My commute presented a great opportunity. Perhaps you could get more out of your commute too. Allow me to share with my discovery with you. 

We can all get more out of our daily commute with a little intentionality. Here are 5 of my favorite pursuits to get the most out of my drive time.

1. Clear and Focus My Mind

Quiet time can be hard to come by. So, my commute provides a perfect opportunity to gather my thoughts. Sometimes it’s best just to clear my mind. This is especially helpful when I have important events going on at work. I can run through the game plan, what I want to say or different ideas in my head. Reviewing my priorities for the day also helps me focus and make the most of the first few minutes in the office.

On the flip side, my commute has often afforded me the opportunity to leave the demands of the workday behind before I get home. Some music or quiet time can allow me to focus on an evening with my family. I find it helps to look ahead and not behind during my drive home.

2. Learn From The Experts

In recent years, an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, tips and resources emerged in me. (My elementary school teachers would be amazed.) Podcasts have been my gold mine.

Whether I want to learn about productivity tips, leadership, faith or business, there’s a Podcast for that. During my commute, I am taught and mentored by the leaders in nearly any field. This is one thing that makes me look forward to the drive ahead. What could I learn tomorrow?

3. Read Via Audiobooks

With all the craziness of life, settling down to read can be a real challenge. I add books to my to-read list way faster than I can bookworm through them. Audiobooks have afforded me a tremendous opportunity to read more. I can hardly wait to get back in the car and “read” what happens next.

4. Build Relationships

Having friends and family spread across timezones can be a challenge. However, my commute usually coincides with a time that someone is free to catch up. With nothing but pavement in front me, I can devote a little attention to building relationships.

There are no chores, emails, or to-dos to get in the way. Why not dial up someone you’ve been meaning to chat with?

5. Praise and Worship

Some days it is just refreshing and uplifting to crank up the radio. I sing my heart out in praise to God. Other times it is a quiet moment for reflection. I can pray, talk to God, worship Him, express gratitude or ask for counsel. Whatever I might need, He is always there.

I don’t know what your favorite pursuits might be. But I imagine that you could get more out of your commute too. Maybe this is your opportunity to learn something new, grow your relationships or journal with a voice-to-text program.

What are the things you struggle to find time for? There may be a way to work them into your commute, safely. You just may start looking forward your daily drive, ride or walk…however you get where you’re going.

Question: What is one pursuit that could help you get more out of your daily commute? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments section below.

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The post Are You Getting The Most Out Of Your Commute? first appeared on The Excelling Edge.