I have never been more bored with my life is what most of you must be saying just about now. It’s also what I’ve been saying but the truth is I’ve been this bored before. After quitting my job as a Fashion Stylist, I took a 6-month sabbatical and while I loved having the free time to think and just be. I was genuinely bored outta my witts. And even though I now work from home every single day and am pretty productive on a day to day basis, I still feel stir crazy! It’s because I miss my commute back and forth. The wind in my hair from that rickshaw ride would wake me up and keep me going for the rest of my day! Do you feel me?
Anyway, every day I’d spend at least 5-10 minutes mumbling to myself about how I wish there were more hours in the day. And how I’d pull a Beyonce if there were. And now I actually have more time but, of course under very unfortunate circumstances. But let’s not get down on ourselves and have a lil’ pity party. I’m here with a list of cool suggestions for you to do to fill that commute time. For starters, I’d sleep more, but just kidding cause I’ve got to give you some real pointers!
Here’s how you can maximise productivity with your extra commute time:
1. Yoga session
Nothing feels better than a nice stretch. The body tenses up from all that working from your bed, or being hunched over at your lunch table. And like you need to mentally unwind so does the body. Even if you’re a runner, walker or workout, nothing beats a stretch before you indulge in any physical activity. I think this is the nicest way to fill that commute time.
2. HIIT workout
High-intensity interval training is a cardiovascular exercise including periods of intense exercises with shorter recovery periods. These intense workouts last for about 30 minutes or less, depending on your current fitness levels. Nothing like getting those endorphins while remaining fit. Let’s face it, we’re all going to over-eat during this quarantine and are going to need to not lose ourselves. So get cracking already.
3. Listen to a podcast or some guided meditation on YouTube
Listen to a podcast, there’s plenty of them out there that will allow you to multi-task. That’s the best part about listening; it doesn’t necessarily affect the rest of your cognitive functioning. This is why you’re able to listen to music and still complete your work. Guided meditations on YouTube are my jam—nothing like setting your day right with setting a positive intention and learning how to manifest your dreams and desires.
4. Read a book
I’m not an avid reader anymore, but if I do pick up a book then I’d try to read at least one whole chapter in my designated commute time. Try, because there’s nothing like expanding your vocabulary.
5. Journal your thoughts
This is my favourite part of the day, I like writing out my feelings because I have too many of them. Writing gives me clarity. I love making lists of what I need to do and I love ticking things off that list as well. Just little things that bring me joy.
6. Dance it out
If you’ve ever seen an episode of Grey’s Anatomy then you know what I’m talking about. Pull a Cristina Yang and Meredith Grey and turn on your music and dance it out like no one’s watching. Because the truth is, no one is watching.
7. Savour your morning routine
Brush your teeth, enjoy your hot or cold shower, eat a nice hearty breakfast and drink a nice cup of tea or coffee whilst you read the news. Slow your thoughts. Just sit with yourself before you return to chaos.
8. Play a quick mobile game
Nothing gets me roaring for the day like a nice mobile game. Who doesn’t love a good win? I play Clash Royale and honestly, I’m addicted! A quick game was always part of my daily commute to work anyway, TBH! Do you have a favourite game that you have to play every day? Let me know in the comments!
9. Go for a walk or a run
If you like, take a quick walk in your area especially if you don’t have a lavish building compound at your disposal. Else go for a run to get your adrenaline pumping.
10. Watch a quick Netflix episode
Nothing I love more than watching a quick episode of Friends while putting on my makeup for work. I can still do that even if I work from home. It’s nice to wake up to positive energy and laughter.
11. Text or call a loved one
I don’t live with my boyfriend so I like beginning my day with a text to him or even a 5-minute phone call to him. I just feel so much better beginning my day with the sound of his lovely voice. Blushes
12. Take a breath
Pause. Breathe. Feel your surroundings. Give thanks for what you have. And then go back and rule the day like the shark that you are. Chomping away bit by bit at your task list.
The fact remains that you can be a sloth and sleep those extra few minutes or you can wake up and embrace your life. Be grateful for every waking minute that puts into focus the privileged lives we are living. Have fun with everything that you do. I hope this list persuades you to do more with your extra commute time!