Monday Commute
Probably the hardest part of a Monday morning is the process of dragging oneself to work after a weekend of fun or rest. Once at work, the doldrums may remain, but at least for me, prepping my mind for returning to work mode and facing another week of commuting is difficult.
When my car died in September 2011 and I was not able to afford fixing it, let alone get another one, the commute became almost unbearable. Via car, even in rush hour traffic, it took me at most 25 minutes each way to and from work. Without a car all winter, I then took four bus rides and two train rides a day for a total of THREE HOURS a day of traveling just for work. Mondays were hellish at the thought of facing another week like that.
Subsequently, I devised a myriad of coping mechanisms that you may find helpful whether taking a car or public transportation on Monday.
~ listen to a "book on tape" through your car or ipod
~ Pick someone out from the crowd, and notice what makes them unique, imagine what kind of morning they've had or the work they do based on your observations
~ While sitting in traffic, look over into the car next to you (safely) and if you catch the person's eye, wave a cheery hello. You'll feel better and so will they!
~ Bring a sketch pad with you and draw something that strikes you during your commute
~ Carpool with a coworker or friend who is going in the same direction
~ Think about someone at your work who you know is having a hard time lately and use your commute time to consider ways of making their day better in a small way
~ If on a bus or train, ask a nearby person what their favorite color is or if they prefer elephants or zebras. Or any random question that would delight and surprise them.
~ Recall the most hilarious or fun moment of your weekend and think about it every hour on the dot Monday morning to give your mind something pleasant to dwell on
~ Do something nice for another commuter. Give up your seat, help them onto the bus, give someone directions, let five people in front of you during traffic, don't react evil for evil if someone cuts you off or flips you off.
~ Close your eyes and rest (please don't do this if you are driving!)
~ Think of an interesting question or topic to talk about with a coworker that doesn't involve the weather or the typical "How was your weekend?" "Oh, fine."
These are a few that I have employed. I have more, but by far my favorite was taking small animal toys I bought from the zoo and photographing them in various situations throughout my 3 hour commute. It gave me something creative and humorous to focus on during the trips. Even at work when I had down time, I photographed them in common places at my workplace. You'll never see your "mundane" daily routine the same again! Happy (or at least tolerable) Commuting to you!
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