A traffic jam is a lot like a delay at the airport: There is really nothing you can do about the situation. Fuming is never a good option because that certainly won’t make the traffic go any further. If you’re headed to an appointment, then you should let the folks on the other side know the minute you get jammed up. Then what? Actually, there are a lot of things you can do to make the most of your next traffic jam. Consider these options:
Listen to a Book
When was the last time you read a good book? Has your reading time gotten away from you? You can make up with that by listening to an audio book. You’ll find as many current and classic books on audio as you would find printed in a library. In fact, your local library might even be lending out audio books. There are other services that let you borrow books on a subscription basis. Word of warning: You might get so involved in a chapter that you’ll listen to it until it ends even if you’ve reached your destination!
Listen to a Podcast
Just as there are hundreds of audio books to listen to, you can also find as many podcasts to enjoy in your traffic jam. A podcast is like a mini talk show. The host of the podcast could be doing all the talking or have guests. As for the topics, you name it and there is sure to be a podcast to matchup for your interests. A quick stop to iTunes will get you started.
Make Voice Memos
Your Smartphone probably came with a default voice memo app. If not, then you can certainly find plenty to pick from in the app store of your choice. You can use voice memos to make shopping lists, take through notes on a current work project or write your own story. Depending on the app, you can create a transcript for your voice memo. Sounds like a fun way to “write a book!”
Practice Positive Thinking
You don’t want to meditate behind the wheel but you can still practice positive thinking. Take the time in traffic to “review” all your goals for the day, week, month and year. Add up the things you have to be positive about and how you’ll be achieving those goals. All of this directed thinking can help you achieve those goals. That would be a very productive traffic jam.
