Work Well: How to make better use of your time when you commute to work in the morning
Find out how you can make better use of your time for self-improvement and improve your day on your way to work in the second part of the Work Well series.
(Photo: iStock/mixetto)
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No one looks forward to the morning rush to get to work – and for good reason. Exposure to crowds, pollution and traffic on the CTE are all causes for increased blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Add the odd fellow commuter behaving badly to the mix (be it forcing open train doors or blasting Facebook videos loudly on the handphone) and you’re ready to turn back and head home.
And you haven’t even factored in the absolute waste of time spent sitting or standing for 30 minutes, if you’re lucky. It’s time you could have spent enjoying a leisurely breakfast, playing with your child or pet, or just sleeping in.
If you’re reading this on your way to work, keep going because we have some wellness tips to help you make better use of your time on the go, other than catching up on your favourite K-drama.
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
The stress from trying not to run late can jack up your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels – all of which can affect your risks of developing cardiovascular conditions, stroke and diabetes. You’re also less likely to exercise (who has the energy after standing in the bus or MRT for more than an hour?) and become more prone to weight gain, a larger waistline and higher BMI.
That’s not all. Humans crave predictability and when your morning ride to the office is delayed by an unexpected traffic jam, MRT delay or rain, your stress hormones are triggered. Over time, when you’re constantly having to switch from a positive (or neutral) state to a negative one, you’re hardwiring your brain to respond more negatively.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Experts suggest active commuting, meaning you mix walking or cycling with public transportation. If you use the bus or MRT, you could hop off a stop earlier and get onto one of those rental bikes for the rest of the journey home. Can’t cycle? Maybe give these other tips a try to make the most of your commute:
1. Work out on your way to work
Other than cycling and walking, you can also skip the lift and escalator, and climb the stairs. Taking small steps can result in a big impact over time.
2. Map out your day
Make a to-do list to plan out your day. Knowing what you need to do before you step into the office can help to take the stress off.
3. Listen to a podcast or audiobook
Learn a new language or get inspired. It can also distract you from stressing over getting to work on time.
4. Work on your side project
Always wanted to start a blog or try something new for dinner? This is the chance to look into it.
Read this story in Bahasa Indonesia here.
