A long commute can cause stress that makes it tough to perform your best at work. Fortunately, there are things you can do to alleviate stress during your work commute.
Should You Ask Your Employer for Help with Your Commute to Work?
One of the best things you can do to combat commute-related stress: ask your employer for help. Remember, your employer wants you to feel great when you arrive at work. If you feel like your commute is hampering your ability to do your job to the best of your ability, let your manager know. Then, you and your manager can work together to determine the best course of action.
For instance, your employer may let you work remotely. In this instance, you can avoid commuting to work altogether. Instead, you can work from the comfort of home and stay connected to your manager and peers via video chats, phone calls, and other communication methods.
Or, your employer may offer flexible work hours. If you take advantage of a new work schedule, you can commute to work at times when there is less traffic on the roads. The result: you can spend less time worrying about your commute to work.
Tips to Improve Your Commute
You and your manager can explore ways to improve your commute. And, there are many things you can do to manage stress as you commute to work, too. These include:
1. Listen to Music
Enjoy music, an audiobook, or a podcast as you commute to work. This can help you take your mind off of the hustle and bustle of traffic.
2. Explore Driving Alternatives
Consider public transportation in lieu of driving to work. You may benefit from taking a train to work, as you won’t have to worry about navigating the roads on your own. Or, if you live close to your workplace, you may want to bike, walk, or jog to work.
3. Carpool with Coworkers
Set up a carpool in which you and your coworkers can travel to work together. The carpool lets you engage with your peers as you travel to the same destination. It can help you foster new friendships with colleagues as well.
4. Establish a Morning Routine
Make your morning routine an enjoyable experience. Give yourself sufficient time to wake up and get ready for work. Treat yourself to a nutrient-rich breakfast that gives you plenty of energy. In addition, don’t forget to give yourself time to relax before work.
These tips can help you make the most of your work commute. But, if you use these tips and still find your commute to work causes stress, you may want to consider a new job. At this point, you can enter the job market and search for a role that helps you avoid a lengthy work commute.
Ready to Give Up Your Commute to Work? Employment Professionals Canada Can Help
Employment Professionals Canada is a professional staffing agency that can keep you up to date about remote jobs and work opportunities close to home. Check out our job board to see what job opportunities are currently available in your area.
