10 Secrets to a Happier Commute

1. Use Public Transport Whenever Possible

Here’s why Dr. Koslowsky’s research found that it’s not the commute per se that is so stressful. The real stress comes from the issue of control. If you drive your own car to work, part of the reason you do it is to feel you’re in control. So if you get stuck in traffic, you feel that you have lost control of your commuting experience, which is where the stress comes in. By taking public transport, be it the train or bus, you have already given up control of your commute. If you get stuck, you won’t be blaming yourself for the delay.

2. Take the Train

If the train is a viable option for you, go for it. Going back to that control issue again, Dr. Koslowsky found that another major cause of commuter stress is uncertainty. And there is far more uncertainty in driving a car, or even commuting via bus or car-sharing because of traffic accidents, jams, etc., than in taking a train, as arrival times are more concrete.

3. Consider Carpooling

It’s not for everyone, and the research is ambiguous, it is worth considering. On the one hand, Koslowksy’s research finds that car sharing can reduce stress, both in terms of the “giving up” of control and in terms of the social interaction that occurs. But if you’re an introvert who prefers a quiet commute so you can read, think or listen to music, then car sharing with people who expect more conversation could just stress you more. The bottom line: if you’re an out-going people person, try the car-share. If you’re an introvert, stick to your usual mode of transport.

4. Avoid Rush Hour

It’s such an obvious way to improve your commute, yet the fact that streets and trains are packed every rush hour shows that few people manage to find an alternative. What are the viable options other than moving or getting a new job?
- Ask for a 1 hour shift in the time you start and end work.
- If your company has satellite offices that are closer to your home, see if you can work there sometimes.
- Drive in before the crowds, and create a constructive pre-work ritual for yourself, such as exercising, eating a leisurely breakfast, running errands.

5. Avoid Stop-and-Go Traffic

Longer is better if the traffic flows smoothly and you avoid lots of lights and roundabouts. For most of us, no form of driving is as stressful as trying to move quickly on crowded roads.