You’re not driving to work, you’re carpooling or if you prefer, ride sharing.

Save gas. Earn rewards. Save wear and tear on your car.

And think about this. If you’re not the driver, you don’t have to keep your eyes on the road. What else could you be do? Glad you asked.

1

Yes, you could scroll your phone, checking your Facebook feed and see what’s up on Twitter. But if you subscribe to a newspaper or magazine, the morning commute can be an ideal time to read something you might otherwise not get to later in the day. If reading in the car gives you a headache, consider finding a podcast you enjoy or tackle an audio book.

2

Like to knit or crochet? Bring your hook or needles and get busy on that scarf/pair of socks/special gift. This also relaxes you before work and helps you unwind after it.

3

Plug in your headphones and enjoy your favorite tunes. Make a morning playlist. Make an evening playlist. Zone out while the miles pass by.

4

Get a head start on email. Sure, if you’d like. Also, clean out your inbox. Delete. Then empty the trashcan.

5

Having a window to plan something out is helpful, whether you’re making a shopping list, scheduling your kids’ play dates or sketching out how you’re going to spend your weekend. If you’re into online dating, swipe left or right and see where it leads.

6

Get your mind going with a crossword puzzle or sudaku or be hip in 2022 guess the Wordle.

7

Binge to your heart’s content or catch up on “This is Us” from the night before using your headphones.

8

Got a presentation at the morning meeting? Review your notes so you’re prepared when you arrive at work

9

It’s best if you limit calls as a courtesy to the driver and other passengers. But it doesn’t hurt to make one call, especially if you know you’re bound to be put on hold for a while.

10

No harm in simply closing your eyes and catching up on some shuteye. Meditate or simply take a breath and relax.