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Moving always presents itself as a challenge, no matter what the destination is: a new city, a new chapter. Moving also implies a commute of some sorts, which means setting that alarm even earlier, preparing in advance and assimilating into a new routine that makes space for potential traffic, cancelling plans and any other inconveniences. However, here are some tips to make the most of your commute to wherever you will be going.
Before you kick back the brakes on your bike, start your engine or swipe your metrocard, prepare your mind for the road ahead. Wake up a little earlier to have those extra 10 minutes reserved for you. Inhale. Exhale. Breathe. Focus on the day ahead and all the possibilities and opportunities that it will present. Realize that it is a privilege to have another day, to have a job. Brew yourself a cup of tea with honey and lemon. Sip slowly and slow down before the busy day. Mondays can be hard, but mornings don’t have to be.
Take a healthy snack with you, whether it’s an apple with almond butter or carrots and hummus. Make sure to always have your refillable water bottle or thermos on hand. Throughout your commute, you might find yourself getting tired, so fuel up on something that will give you energy, not deplete it.
A commute can take an average of 20 to 40 minutes, and those can be filled with learning and listening. Download a podcast from our recent list. “Up First” might prove a good choice as NPR provides you the news you need to start the day in a condensed 10 minutes. Follow our playlists on Spotify, this month’s being “Mountain to Valley.” These are simple, entertaining ways to prepare your mind for productivity.
Commutes are never going to be the best part of your day, but they can surely be a space just for you to help you get to not only work, but to the apex of any day. Focus your attention on the condition of your mind, your heart, your goals. You have the power to decide what to do with the time you are given. View the mandatory route as part of a meaningful routine to beginning your day with a refreshed positivity and refueled productivity.
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