Taking public transit gives you a set amount of time each day that you can use in a variety of different ways. Make the most of your commute by optimizing your route and using your in-transit time intentionally. These 6 tips will take your commute from boring to enjoyable.

Before you ride

1. Plan your route ahead of time

To eliminate stress over missing a bus or train, make sure to plan your commute ahead of time. Look up bus schedules when the bus will be at your stop.

2. Purchase your passes online

VCTC now offers passes online. Pre-order your monthly pass, and it will be delivered to your home. You can now save time and avoid the hassle of obtaining cash to pay the bus driver. It’s a win-win.

On the ride

3. Create your own public transit ritual

Fill your commute time doing something that you enjoy (as long as it’s not disrupting to others). There are plenty of unobtrusive activities that can improve your commute. Here are some ideas for things you can do on the bus:

• Read a book you have been trying to finish
• Listen to podcasts or audiobooks
• Meditate for 10 minutes
• Journal
• Text your loved ones
• Catch up with friends on social media
• Plan a weekend trip

4. Prep for your work day

If you need to get ahead of work, use your commute time to prep for the day. Bring a journal or use the notes app on your phone to write down your priorities for the day. Or use an app like Wunderlist to organize your to-dos. Schedule time for the most important task first. Once you have accomplished that, you can move on to lower priority to-do’s. By the time you arrive at work, you will be ready to take on the day, stress-free.

On the way home

5. Decompress from your day

Use your commute home to reflect on your workday. You might write down key moments that you want to remember or make a to-do list for the next day. Taking some time to go over the day before you get home can help you transition from work mode to relaxation or family mode.

6. Use an evening ritual to transition from work to home

If you listen to podcasts on your morning commute, you could try an audiobook for the way home, or listen to a new (or old) album. Try meditation to clear your mind. Or perhaps journalling is a good way for you to deal with your feelings from the day. Choosing something enjoyable to do on your commute home can help ease the way from work into home life.

What do you do to maximize your commute? Share your tips on social with the hashtag #MyVCTCCommute