I spend about 90 minutes a day in my car. I'm not good at sitting still, and time is precious, so I've found ways to make the most of my commute.
With this face waiting for me when I get home ... how can I not?
Listen and learn
Audiobooks. I subscribe to Audible, and get credits toward downloading audiobooks, and it also comes with a free audio subscription to The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal.
Whether you choose a book to continue learning or to be entertained, finding time to read goes out the window when you have kids, and this gives you back the chance to enjoy reading, by listening. I find when I do have time to sit and read (for 10 minutes at a time), I want to be entertained and read fiction, and so listening to books on my commute gives me a chance to learn and listen to educational and non-fiction books. Although, I will say tossing in a nice fiction book here and there is great and allows you to actually participate in a book club discussion here and there.
Podcasts. Find topics that you enjoy learning more about, or being entertained by. One of my favorites is Creative Warriors by Jeffrey Shaw. Ted Talks is another great one to check out.
NPR. We are talking straight up old school radio. Set your preset, and catch up on news around the world and learn about new topics.
Schedule appointments
Doctors. I bet you are already good at making sure your kiddos have their appointments scheduled, but what about you? That's right this includes doctors appointments for you too, mom needs to stay healthy to take care of her kiddos.
Lawn care. It's that time of year to get the yards aerated and overseeded. Program in phone numbers for local lawn care companies and speed dial for quotes.
Massage. It has healing qualities that combines quiet you time, pain management, and stress management. My doctor prescribes them to help manage pain from my fibromyalgia. Check out Massage Envy! Please tell them I sent you, they have a great referral program.
Ask questions about bills
New quote for home owners or car insurance. Look for ways to save money, when you have time to answer all of their questions. You'd be amazed by what you can save.
Clarify a fee on a recent bill. Not sure where the extra $15 came from? Now is your chance to get more information and perhaps get a credit on your account.
Catch up with friends and family
Remember the days when you would go meet a friend for coffee or drinks? Yeah, doesn't happen so much anymore after you become a parent. Calling friends and family to catch up while you are driving results in more complete conversations that aren't interupted by ... no don't touch that ... give that back ... careful watch out for the ...
I have commute buddies that are also morning people and we catch up in the morning on the way to work, and others that the drive home is better. Mom gets at least one night a week, and its a great chance to make time to say hi to Grandma too!
Relax and listen to music
Not every moment has to be constructive. Take a few minutes to relax and unwind. This is particularly nice on the drive home from work. Let's you leave work behind by the time you get to pick up your children from school.
There are even days, I get halfway home and realize I didn't even turn the radio I, I was driving in silence. Time to unwind is important too!
Whatever you choose to do during your commute, please be safe! Use bluetooth to stay hands free, keep your eyes on the road, and please no texting.