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De-stressing Your Commute

Dr. Will G. Barnes
January 26, 2004

I probably average between 100 to 150 miles a week in my work-related commute. And sometimes, it can be a very stressful part of my day. If that's your situation too, you're not alone. Here are some tips, which make this necessary evil a bit more bearable. 

• First and foremost, don't get drawn into conflict or competition with other drivers.

• If another driver cuts you off or irritates you in some way, chalk it up to human imperfection and back off. As soon as an aggressive-driver situation happens, simply slow down and put distance between you and them.

• Leave 15 minutes earlier than you think you need to. This extra time gives you a cushion if you run into delays.

• Establish an alternate travel route, which will break the monotony of the same drive everyday.

• Listen to soothing music or audio books. And even though you can enjoy the distraction, remember you still have to focus on the road and on your driving.

• Adjust your weekly travel routine so that you can avoid predictable peak commuting hours and traffic jams.

• Do as the Europeans do - join a carpool with friends or co-workers. Give yourself and your car a break.

• If you can, take advantage of the the train or public transportation to get to work or appointments instead of driving.

• If you are stopped in heavy traffic, use the time to reflect on your accomplishments of the day.

• To maintain mental stamina, commit yourself to regular exercise, which helps the brain to stay alert and increase awareness of your surroundings.

• The end game is to arrive at work and home safely.

• Make peace with the fact that commuting is part of your daily routine. Keep it all in perspective.

And finally, be creative - it is amazing at what you can do with those extra 60 to 90 minutes each day! Personally, I love listening to audiotapes (there's music, books-on-tape, professional education... the list is endless). I also find that it is a good time for me to do mental imagining of my 'To Do List."

How about you? What can you think of that will help you de-stress your commute?

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Dr. Will G. Barnes is a Senior Staff Therapist in CFR's New Jersey offices. He works with individuals, couples and families, as well as conducts seminars on Stress Management, Self-Care, Spirituality and Marriage/Family Enrichment. Dr. Barnes can be reached at 856-783-4200 x8.

For more relationship advice, check out our Archive of Relationship Tips.