Head out in New York City or any other major city during rush hour and you'll get the full impact of just how many commuters there are that take public transportation. There are many who throw on the headphones and do nothing but read or listen to music, but this is an excellent opportunity to catch up on work-related tasks. It might seem like you're extending your work day a bit longer, but there's a surprising amount of tasks you can get done during your commute.
Jot down notes
Drowning out the world and jotting down ideas is an incredibly productive way to keep yourself busy during your commute, especially if you're in a creative industry. Always carry a notebook and pen with you just in case inspiration strikes.
Do some networking
You don't want to be one of those people who talks loudly on the phone the entire time they're on the bus or train, but you can at least catch up on your business networking via email or text while you're on your way home. It's much better than trying to do it while you're at home or busy at work.
Catch up on your social networking
Whether you're social networking for business, pleasure or both, the long commute home is an excellent chance to catch up on it. Knowing you have this time can help restrain you from social networking during work hours or when you're at home later on and trying to relax.
Make to-do lists
Get a head start on what you have to do the following day by making two separate to-do lists. Create one for work and one for non-work tasks and add on to it as the day comes to a close. Right after work is the perfect time to do it since your brain is still fresh with what work tasks need to get done.
Do some reading
It might be appealing to read any random book on the way home, but while your mind is still work-focused, do some reading that pertains to your industry. Whether it's websites, magazines or newspapers, it can help you stay up-to-date on the latest news and help you get ahead in your company.
Read the news
It doesn't matter what industry you're in, at some point you're going to engage in a non-work related topic that was featured in the news and you don't want to be the one who has to fake their way through the conversation. Stay up-to-date with the news by doing some reading on your way home whether it's the newspaper or a news website. Not only can it help you stay abreast of what's going on in the world, but you won't be at a loss for words when the topic comes up in a business or personal setting.
When you make a run for it after work, the last thing you likely want to do is anything remotely related to your job. However, spending that extra time can be incredibly beneficial in more ways than one. It can help keep your tasks from piling up or having to do them while you're at home trying to relax. You can also feel much more productive and less stressed knowing how much you got done in your day.
More from Lauren R:
How to deal with interruptions at work
Tips for regaining your motivation at work
7 ways to make the most out of a networking event
