Reboot Your Commute
Most of us used to live
two distinct lives. There was Work You and Home You. But if you’ve spent the past 18 months trying to hide screaming kids or piles of unwashed dishes while on Zoom calls, you might actually be missing your commute – or at least the headspace it offered. It can be a calming ritual that helps you arrive relaxed and ready to focus. Here’s how four men recently switched gears in their commutes to feel more fulfilled
Run To Recharge Jeff Rasmussen, 41, biologist
MY WIFE, my two children and I live three and a half miles from my work. When my kids weren’t in school, my wife and I would trade off taking care of them. Often I didn’t have time to work out, so I started running to work four days a week. To have time when my mind and body are in a state of flow is a source of replenishment. I arrive at work sweaty but with a clear mind. I go home energised. I eat better. I sleep better.
Enjoy The Alone Time Dan Burnett, 36, manager at a financial-services firm
I USED to dread my commute. The traffic is terrible. Then the pandemic hit and I was working from home. Now I’m back at the office four times a week and look forward to those 45 minutes each way. If I want to blast out music, I do. I’m reconnecting with people, too. I’m a guy and won’t just pick up the phone. But when I’m sitting in traffic, it’s easier for me to call my mum or catch up with a friend.
Pedal To Play Around Harry Hill, 51, government employee
BEFORE THE pandemic, I’d bike to the station about a mile away. Now we’re back more regularly and I’m riding all the way there – five and a half miles. I’m primarily a mountain biker, but for my commute I ride my cross-country bike. That way I get to play around a little bit – jump off curbs, ride on grass. I’m not thrilled about returning to the office, but I’m happy I get a chance to ride a bit more.
Relax, Read And Reset Tommy Lutz, 38, engineering manager
I USED to live in New Jersey and would ride my folding bike 12 miles to my job in Manhattan. Sometimes I’d even sail a folding dinghy I built and bike the rest of the way to work. After COVID shut down the office, my wife and son and I moved to a small town on Long Island. I’m going back to the office three days a week, and I take the train. That’s okay. A train ride can be a kind of meditation or good for reading books.