SWR commuter

How to stay productive while commuting

In this article, you'll learn the following:

The way you begin your day can totally transform its outcome, so start as you mean to go on, and add some productivity and positivity to your routine when commuting by train. Instead of letting those precious minutes go to waste, there are plenty of ways to harness the time for your own personal or professional growth. From switching off and meditating to trying your hand at a new skill, we’ve rounded-up some simple tips for staying productive while commuting.

Plan your day

On your morning commute, your mind will often be full of thoughts about what the day ahead is going to bring. Whether it’s writing a checklist of things that need to be done or jotting down a to-do list, instead of ruminating, put pen to paper and plan your day. This doesn’t have to be a lengthy list, simply a note of some of the most crucial things that you’d like completed by the time you clock off. By setting them out an getting them clear in your mind, those daunting tasks will suddenly seem much more manageable.

Stay one step ahead with work

SWR commuter

While we’re not suggesting you do extra work, getting ahead by ticking a few tasks off before you arrive at the office can get you in the right headspace and even prevent you from working later than you should. Swap aimless scrolling for something a little more productive and power through some of the emails you’ve been putting off – they’ll probably take minutes to clear, rather than the mountain they’ve been built up to feel like. Our handy tray tables make using your laptop or tablet super-easy, plus you can also take advantage of the free Wi-Fi onboard.

Make time for personal growth

Taking time out for personal development is crucial, but rarely made a priority, so your daily commute could be the perfect time to refresh your routine. As you gaze out the window on your next train journey, start considering your personal goals. Write down what you’d like to achieve in the next few months, then take the time to look into courses or activities you can try out to help with your personal growth. You could also spend the time on some very important self-care, which could involve a new or favourite hobby like arts and crafts or listening to music.

Kickstart a side project

Whether it’s a passion project or something on the side to earn you a little more money, when used correctly, those crucial commuting minutes could be life changing. Your brain often works best in the morning rather than after a long day, so it’s a good time to get the ball rolling. From penning the book you’ve always dreamt of writing, to putting together your online photography portfolio in the hopes of it becoming a business, dig deep and think about how you could turn that hobby into a side project. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so just 30 minutes of your daily commute over a year could lead to something brilliant.

Meditate

Life can sometimes be a tad overwhelming, so take the time to quieten all the noise in your head with a spot of meditation. Zoning out on your train journey is an excellent way to mentally prepare for the day ahead. Whether you follow breathing exercises on an app that teaches you how to meditate, or listen to calming meditation music, these techniques can help to improve your focus, reduce your anxiety and stress, and improve your overall wellbeing.

Read a book

If zoning out completely with zero distractions is a little too tricky for you, escape to a literary world far away with a book. Not only does it keep your brain active, but it’s also a failsafe way to detach from daily stresses – if only for an hour. Devour that book that’s been sitting on your shelf for months, or for personal growth, why not consider a non-fiction or a read up on a skill you’ve been keen to learn? If you’re looking to get ahead at work, you could try getting stuck into industry-related guides. Whatever you pick, you’ll soon be feeling blissful and inspired.

Listen to a podcast or audiobook

SWR commuter

For commutes involving a substantial amount of standing, or if you simply want to sit back and unwind, popping on a podcast or audiobook could be the perfect escape for your mind. From self-development and educational options, to a novel read by a famous voice, pick something you’re interested in and transform your commute.  

Learn a new skill

It’s time to put a stop to that procrastination, take a break from Twitter and dive into learning that new skill. It could be taking up a language using an app (just 15 minutes a day could make a big difference), doing a coding course on the go, or even sharpening your brain with some puzzles. Whatever you choose, we’re sure you won’t regret injecting some productivity into your commute.

Check in with friends and family

If your notifications and missed calls have been stacking up over the week, why not take some time out of your train journey to check in with loved ones. You could write a sentimental message or simply let a friend know they’ve been on your mind with a funny photo that reminds you of them. Whichever you pick, give up scrolling and make someone’s day by reaching out to them. It’s a sure-fire way to start your day – and theirs – on a positive note and takes just minutes.

No matter how you choose to switch up your commute, we hope these tips have inspired you to make the most of those once-mundane minutes travelling to and from work. If you’re travelling for business, you can buy business train tickets with Business Direct, SWR’s business and corporate train service platform.