3 Ways to Survive a Long Commute

Let's face it, long commutes are exhausting. Unfortunately, whether you like it or not, you probably have to suffer the consequences of a long daily commute to work. Like most people, you want to be able to take advantage of the lower home prices and better school districts you're likely to find away from city centers, regardless of where your workplace is located. Furthermore, with more and more households headed by two working partners, it's becoming increasingly difficult for everyone to live close to work. If you're one of those people who have to commute an hour or more each way to your job, here are a few things you can do cut down on the stress that comes with those long daily drives.

1. Leave Home Early

Of all the stresses one has to deal with while commuting, perhaps none is more taxing than trying to beat the clock. While it may be no fun having to drive for an extended period of time to get to work, you can do so relatively stress-free if you don't have to worry about getting there on time. Make it a habit to leave every day 15 to 20 minutes earlier than usual. If it takes you approximately 40 minutes to make it to your 9 a.m. job, you'll be taking a lot of pressure off your shoulders by leaving the house at 8 a.m. instead of 8:20. This takes one big stress factor out of your drive and enables you to relax a little more. You've also got a little extra time to lose if you happen to get stuck in an unexpected traffic jam.

2. Listen to Podcasts or Audiobooks

Besides being a source of stress, long drives are boring. One of the best ways to alleviate this boredom is by listening to a podcast. If you haven't yet gotten into the habit of listening to podcasts, there is undoubtedly a podcast out there somewhere that suits your interests. If podcasts aren't your cup of tea, you can reacquaint yourself with a favorite author or discover a new one by listening to an audiobook. Practically every genre is well represented, so listen to one of your favorite books or one on your to-read lists while you drive, and, before you know it, you'll actually start to look forward to your daily commute.

3. Take Public Transportation

Public transportation systems are tailored to meet the needs of the daily commuter. If you haven't tried it yet, look online at your city's metro options to see how long it would take you to get to work using only public transportation options. If you can find a route that works for you, it's worth riding a bus or train to get to work even if it adds a few minutes to your daily commute.

Long commutes might be frustrating and emotionally draining, so it's important that you try to be proactive in making your daily commute as easy and stress-free as possible. Practice these simple techniques and find out just how easy your commute can be.