Slow traffic, other drivers, nasty weather and other frustrating elements can make your daily commute to work an extremely uncomfortable experience. Being stressed or angry while driving is unsafe and unhealthy, but by keeping the following tips in mind both before and while you are driving, you can easily survive even a long commute.
Route Options
Figure out a few alternative routes to take for your commute. More than one viable route option gives you a chance to add some variety to what is often a tedious task. You can also avoid congested traffic and construction easier if you know more than one way to get where you are going. The best way to set up different commute routes is to use a GPS, but a traditional map or atlas can be just as handy. Practice new driving routes in advance to avoid running late for work.
Traffic Reports
Another easy way to survive a long commute is to check traffic reports before you leave. Live traffic reports will alert you to crowded roads, construction, accidents or other potential delays. Local television and radio news programs are usually reliable sources of traffic information. You can also use a GPS device or mobile app that includes up-to-date traffic information.
Carpooling
Passengers you have a good rapport with can go a long way toward surviving a long and frustrating commute. A reliable carpooling routine has a number of benefits. First, you don't always need to do the driving, which gives you and your car an occasional break. Secondly, with passengers in the car, you're allowed to use the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane that usually moves quicker than other driving lanes. Also, the tension of driving in rough traffic can be broken by socializing and commiserating with carpool members.
Background Noise
Music, books on tape and talk radio provide a more pleasant background noise for your commute, making even a lengthy drive easier to survive. To avoid the distraction of messing with radio buttons and CD changing, find one source of background noise you like that will last through the entire drive. Don't crank up the volume too much, though--you need to be aware of certain car noises and ambulance or police sirens.
A long commute is easy to survive by taking the previous steps before embarking on your daily drive. Be prepared for potential traffic issues and find ways to make the drive itself more enjoyable to take the stress out of your daily driving regime.
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