According to Lloyds Bank, the average worker in the UK spends more than 10 days a year travelling to and from work which equates to 251 hours. Dependent on where you’re located determines the average daily commute.

• East of England – 69 minutes
• London – 84 minutes
• East Midlands – 49 minutes
• Wales – 52 minutes
• South East – 75 minutes

Your daily commute doesn’t have to be dull, by using this time to your advantage; you could really get ahead of planning, whilst also boosting productivity. Whether you drive, take public transport, cycle or walk; by making the most of your commuting time, you could really enhance the rest of the day.

Why not create a to-do list?

You could even do this whilst driving if you have a smartphone by asking Siri, or Google to make a note whilst you dictate. By the time you get into work, you will be organised for the day ahead.

Learn

Use this time to listen to a podcast, read a book or even learn a new language. This way, it’s not taking any time out of your day.

If you are wanting to learn a new language, try Duolingo; a completely free app that has a multitude of languages you could learn whilst on your commute. With Duolingo, you can decide how much time you would like to set aside to learn your chosen language, to fit in with available time.

Trying to switch off? 

It’s been a busy day, you’ve got a lot of things going on around your head and your struggling to switch off. Sound familiar? Why not try an app called Headspace, which has different exercises to focus on, dependent on the result you’re trying to achieve e.g. unwinding, reducing panic, focusing etc.

Write or draw

Always had the itch to write a book or take up an art project? If you travel via public transport and are lucky enough to have space or even a seat, why not use your daily commute to start?

Have a nap

Obviously only suitable to do so if travelling by public transport! But why not use this time to catch some much needed zzz’s ahead of a busy day, or even on your commute home.

Track accomplishments

Getting into the habit of making a note of all notable achievements you’ve had each day is a great way of keeping track of all the small things you do that may be easily forgettable but make all the difference.

Leave a little early in the mornings

This may sound like utter hell, however; leaving slightly earlier in the mornings will allow you time to take that more scenic route that normally, you don’t have time to take or allow you to grab a nice breakfast on your way into the office.

Catch up with friends or family

Why not use the time travelling to catch up with a friend or family member you haven’t spoken to for a while?

Time out

Take some time for yourself, after a hectic day at work sometimes you don’t get the chance to chill out as soon as you get home. Use your journey to claim back a little “you” time. Pop in your headphones and chill out for the rest of your journey.

Catch up on a TV series

If travelling by public transport, use this time to catch up or finish a TV series you’ve been dying to watch!