Are you relying on public transportation, such as the bus or the subway, to get to work? Taking public transportation for work isn’t always easy, but you can improve your commute with a few hacks! Here are five ways to make taking public transportation as stress-free as possible.
Know the Schedule
Public transportation often takes longer than driving to work, and you may need to make one or more changes along the way. Whether you’re starting a new job or have been commuting forever, take a few minutes to review the relevant schedules. You might be able to shave off a few minutes by taking a different bus or train.
Plan Your Route
Sometimes the quickest public transportation option isn’t the most comfortable. Maybe you need a simple change of scenery. Or perhaps you’re wondering whether you can combine commuting with exercise by getting off a few stops sooner. Carefully scrutinize your available options, and pick the one that seems to make the most sense for you.
Download the Public Transportation App
Not all cities have a public transportation app, but be sure to download it if yours does. These apps can warn you of delays or other issues in real-time and let you select alternate routes. This allows you to retain a feeling of control over your commute, rather than simply dealing with problems when you unknowingly walk into them.
Listen to Something Soothing or Uplifting
Public transportation has its drawbacks, but a huge advantage is that you don’t have to pay attention to traffic. Take advantage of the opportunity to relax and listen to music or podcasts. You might prefer soothing music after a hard day or an uplifting podcast to build your nerve before a big meeting.
Sign up for Tax-Free Commuter Benefits
Find out if your employer offers these common benefits. If so, you’ll be able to use pre-tax money to pay for your commuting costs. This can cover your subway pass or other public transportation expenses while lowering your tax bill at the end of the year.
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