In my new job, I have a 30-minute commute. Not terribly difficult, but a little longer than I’m used to.
I could shoot down the road with my radio blaring, but I choose as best I can to redeem my time. Here’s how I start my mornings…
- Get informed. I do put on my radio when I first get in the car, but that is mainly to get the latest traffic and weather. This helps me know if the are accidents or construction on my route, in case I need to make alternate plans.
- Down with the windows. This is more of a warm weather, no rain thing. My office is indoors without a lot of natural light or circulation. So, I take advantage of 35 mile-per-hour speeds to get a bunch of fresh air first thing in the morning. If it’s chilly, I’ll even run the heater.
- Podcasts. As I have mentioned before, I am an avid podcast consumer. I use my time in the car to listen to some of my favorite pastors and communicators. It’s a great way to begin the day on an uplifting note.
- Sometimes, silence. There are times when I’m not in the mood for a podcast or music. On those days, I shut off the noise and talk to God. I ask His blessings on the day ahead and for the Holy Spirit’s help as I try to be salt and light in the world.
What is your commute like?
Not a Camouflaged Soul 
Congrats on your new job!
I also have a 30 minute commute. I don’t like losing a chunk of my life to driving–if I could live next to work, I probably would (as it is the place I go the most). However, my commutes here are far, far better than in Washington, DC–a place that measures distance in time (because time is the one thing money and power can’t buy).
My day is chock full of information saturation, so I normally drive to work in silence. It is possible I sing Southern Gospel / etc from time to time–you know, just to get my voice warm for all those meetings/phone calls. I used to listen to CDs, but the player in my car has decided to retire. My music of choice was stuff positive in tone–it is important for me to guard my mood. On the way home, if I happen to drive home during the time that “To Every Man An Answer” airs, I will usually listen to it. Otherwise, again I commute in silence and reflect on the affairs of the day/week.
Thanks Ward! I find “different” noise as soothing as silence at times.