10 Ways to Make Your Commute More Productive

When searching for a new job, commute time is often a key consideration. It affects your energy, work-life balance, and even job satisfaction. Ideally, we’d all find that perfect role just 10 minutes down the road, but let’s be honest: sometimes the right opportunity means a longer commute.

So, if your next job requires a bit more travel, it doesn’t have to feel like lost time. Here are 10 practical, realistic ways to make your commute more productive, whether you’re travelling by train, bus, car, bike, or foot.

1. Listen to Industry Podcasts

Podcasts are an excellent way to stay connected to trends in your field or discover entirely new ways of thinking. With thousands of high-quality shows available for free, it’s never been easier to turn your commute into a moving classroom.

Whether you’re interested in leadership, recruitment, finance, marketing, or tech, there’s a podcast that speaks your language. Even better, they’re often updated weekly or daily, keeping you informed in real-time.

Examples:

• WorkLife with Adam Grant explores how to improve workplace culture and personal growth.
• The Diary of a CEO offers in-depth interviews with business leaders and entrepreneurs.
• The recruitment mentors podcast covers emerging trends in recruitment and HR strategy.
• How I Built This dives into the stories behind successful companies.

Why it works: Passive learning during downtime keeps your mind engaged without adding extra hours to your schedule.

2. Level Up with Audiobooks

If you prefer long-form content or enjoy diving deep into a topic, audiobooks are ideal. From personal development to business strategy and fiction to memoirs, there’s an audiobook for every mood and interest.

Apps like Audible and Libby (a free library app) allow you to download books and listen offline, so even underground train commutes are covered. Create a list of professional or motivational books you’ve been meaning to read, and chip away at them during your travels.

Productivity tip:
Set a monthly goal. For example, aim to finish one book each month, and use your commute to reach that target. You’ll be amazed at how many books you can get through in a year.

Check out some of the most popular audiobooks right now (as of mid-July 2025):

📚 Nonfiction:

1. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins (narrated by the author)
2. Atomic Habits by James Clear (narrated by the author)
3. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

📖 Fiction:

1. Rich Girl Summer by Lily Chu
2. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
3. Isles of the Emberdark by Brandon Sanderson

These titles span practical self-help, mindset shifts, escapist storytelling, riveting memoirs, and sci-fi adventures, perfect for any commute mood or career-building goal.

3. Plan Your Day with Intention

Instead of rushing into the office feeling scattered or overwhelmed, use your commute to get ahead mentally. Planning your day in advance helps you feel more in control and focused from the moment you sit down at your desk.

You can do this mentally, with a notepad, or even on your phone using productivity apps like Todoist or Notion. Outline your top three priorities, flag any key meetings, and remind yourself of any personal goals too (like drinking more water or finishing that report before 3 p.m.).

Bonus benefit: When you start your workday with a plan, you’re less reactive and more proactive, which often leads to greater job satisfaction.

4. Learn a New Skill or Language

Looking to improve your professional edge or prepare for a new role? Your commute can become the perfect window for skill-building.

Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone make learning a new language both fun and easy, even if you only have 15 minutes a day. Want something more career-focused? Try audio-based courses on platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Skillshare.

Why it’s valuable:
Learning during your commute builds momentum. You don’t need big blocks of free time, small, consistent effort adds up quickly.

5. Practice Mindfulness or Guided Meditation

A long commute can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with traffic, train delays, or a tight schedule. Practicing mindfulness during this time can help you reduce stress and improve your emotional resilience before and after work.

Use guided meditation apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer. Even a 5-minute breathing exercise can help you feel more grounded and prepared for the day ahead.

Driving to work?
Try mindful driving, focus fully on the road, breathe deeply, and avoid distractions. It’s a great way to start your day with presence instead of pressure.

6. Stay Current with Industry News

Keeping up with news relevant to your industry helps you stay sharp, position yourself as informed, and engage meaningfully in conversations at work. If reading isn’t convenient on the move, many news outlets now offer audio briefings or daily recaps.

Try subscribing to niche newsletters (like Marketing Brew, Morning Brew, or HR Dive) and skimming them on the bus or train. Podcasts like The Daily or BBC World at One can keep you informed without screen time.

Tip: Make a habit of noting one interesting insight each day that you can bring up in a meeting or with a colleague.

7. Network on the Go

Professional relationships are often what create new opportunities. Your commute can be a great time to maintain and build those connections.

Use LinkedIn to send a quick message, leave a thoughtful comment on a post, or follow up with someone you met at an event. If you’re in the job market, this is also a great time to check in with recruiters, respond to messages, or update your profile.

Small actions lead to big results. One well-timed message could lead to your next job or partnership.

8. Record Voice Notes or Brainstorm

Sometimes your best ideas come when your mind has time to wander — and the commute is often one of those times. Instead of losing those thoughts, record them.

Use voice memo apps or tools like Otter.ai to capture brainstorms, goals, reminders, or even journal entries. If you’re planning a project or trying to solve a problem, talking it out on your commute can spark fresh ideas.

Driving? Use hands-free voice assistants to capture notes safely.

9. Decompress with Smart Entertainment

Not every commute needs to be a hustle. Sometimes, the most productive use of that time is to decompress. Listening to a compelling interview, uplifting story, or even a gripping novel can reset your mood and refresh your mind.

This matters more than it seems. Arriving at work feeling calmer and happier can directly impact your productivity, patience, and performance.

Choose content that entertains and inspires. Your future self will thank you.

10. Reflect on Your Day (or Week)

Reflection is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Use your commute home to evaluate your day, celebrate small wins, and consider areas for improvement.

Ask yourself:

• What went well today?
• What could I do differently tomorrow?
• Did I move closer to any long-term goals?

Even five minutes of reflection can help you make better decisions, strengthen emotional intelligence, and track your progress over time.

Final Thought

When exploring new job opportunities, it’s crucial to consider commute time as part of the overall package. A longer journey might be worth it for the right role, but it doesn’t have to feel like a drain on your energy or your time.

By using your commute with intention, you can turn travel time into one of the most productive, enriching parts of your day. Whether you’re learning a new skill, catching up on the latest news, or simply decompressing in a mindful way, your journey to and from work can support your career growth and mental well-being.

Thinking about your next career move but worried about the commute?
We help candidates find roles that align with their goals, lifestyle, and location – and we’ll help you weigh every factor that matters.

Reach out today and let’s find a role that works for your life, not just your CV.