It's time for you to start romanticizing your commute!

Roughly 40% of workers in Indonesia endure grueling daily treks of at least 30 minutes each way. Yet, for an ever-growing bunch, this expedition stretches to a mind-numbing 120 minutes or even more . Talk about an endless odyssey of travel.

As one might expect, a study carried out back in 2006 to gauge the sheer joy derived from everyday activities laid bare the harsh truth: the morning commute sank to rock bottom on the satisfaction scale, with the evening commuting trailing closely behind. Moreover, extended commute times (especially behind the wheel) cozy up to a whole slew of health maladies, ranging from weight gain and elevated blood pressure . These health concerns may stem from inadequate sleep, prolonged periods of inactivity, exposure to air pollution, or avalanche of stress .?

The Toll of Daily Commutes

In Indonesia, commuting times have been on a relentless rise, and the mounting issue of traffic congestion has only worsened the burden of wasted time, money, and fuel.?

Over the past twenty years, Indonesia has witnessed a significant surge in motorized transportation, driven by factors such as subsidized fuel, increased incomes, and favorable interest rates for vehicle loans. Unfortunately, this rapid motorization, coupled with inadequate infrastructure, intensifies the detrimental environmental consequences of transportation. Presently, the transport sector alone contributes to a staggering 70%-80% of the nation's outdoor air pollution, encompassing harmful particulate matter. Furthermore, it is responsible for a noteworthy 23% of greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating the environmental challenges we face.

Commuting also encroaches on personal relationships. Over three-fourths of Indonesians travel to work alone. Research reveals that commuting by car diminishes the available time individuals have to spend with their spouses, family, and friends. For men, a one-hour increase in commute time translates to a 21.8-minute decrease in time spent with their spouse, an 18.6-minute decrease with children, and a 7.2-minute decrease with friends. Women experience an 11.9-minute decrease in time spent with friends for every additional hour of commute. Public transportation commuters , on the other hand, seem to be less affected by these social costs compared to drivers.

Shortening your lengthy commute may seem like the ultimate solution—whether by moving closer to your workplace or exploring new career paths. Yet, let's be real, not everyone has those options.

Commuting, let’s face it, isn’t something anyone really enjoys. However, there’s an intriguing allure in the transition it offers. Picture this: you step off at Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Station, surrounded by fellow commuters in the midst of their own transformations, and suddenly, there’s a collective energy that screams, “We're all professionals ready to conquer the day!” This notion of shared consciousness is no trivial matter. We witness it in the synchronized movements of birds and fish, as they gracefully veer off in perfectly coordinated directions.

Things may become infinitely easier when surrounded by a tribe of management consultants, lawyers, tech workers, and all the Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) types, all reinforcing each other’s dedication to the day ahead. The camaraderie and shared commitment create a powerful synergy that propels us forward.

Commuting doesn't have to be a complete downer.?

Believe it or not, there are some silver linings to be found amidst the travel chaos. Think about it: commuting grants you precious moments of solitude, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle and find solace in your own company. It’s a prime opportunity to delve into a good book, engage in deep contemplation, or simply indulge in some well-deserved “me time” to unwind after a long day. So, while commuting may have its drawbacks, let's not forget the little pockets of positivity it can offer along the way.

In 2014, a fascinating study discovered that the mental well-being of individuals who embraced active travel, such as walking or public transport, surpassed those who drove. Their ability to concentrate and experience happiness soared higher than their driving counterparts. Interestingly, switching from driving to active travel even led to a notable improvement in overall well-being. Surprisingly, longer travel time on foot enhanced well-being, while the opposite was true for drivers. Driving demands constant focus and can contribute to increased boredom, isolation, and stress.

Moreover, active commuting brings potential physical health advantages , depending on the mode of transportation. Walking or cycling to work has been linked to an impressive 11 percent reduction in cardiovascular risk , particularly benefiting women. It's time to reconsider how we commute and unlock the positive impact it can have on our minds and bodies.

Romanticizing your commute into a positive experience for yourself

1. Defeat the monotony. Enduring your commute mindlessly leads to boredom, frustration, and wasted time. Instead, incorporate portable activities into your routine. Enjoy music on public transport, indulge in podcasts or audiobooks while driving, or immerse yourself in a captivating book during train rides.
2. Embrace the unpredictability. Don't let unexpected traffic or construction ruin your mood. Fighting against the unpredictable nature of commuting drains your mental energy. Whether it's a train delay or a flat tire, try not to dwell on the minute details of your journey.
3. Accept your lack of control. As a commuter, it's crucial to recognize that certain factors, such as train schedules, weather conditions, or traffic congestion, are beyond your control.
4. Envision your ideal day during your commute to work. Reflect and unwind during your commute home. Use your commute as an opportunity to set intentions for the day ahead. Imagine a day filled with productivity, efficiency, resilience, or skill. Reflect on your experiences during the journey back home and take time to unwind. In a recent study, participants who reflected on their personal and professional goals during their commute reported increased job satisfaction and reduced emotional exhaustion after six weeks. Commuting offers a rare chance to gain a broader perspective on our lives and aspirations. Additionally, a lengthy commute helps separate work and home, allowing for a smoother transition.
5. Incorporate active commuting whenever possible. While your commute may involve driving or sitting for long periods, find ways to include physical activity. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, or opt for walking or cycling part of the way. These small changes can improve your physical well-being and mental state.
6. Practice gratitude. Acknowledge the challenges of a long commute but also appreciate the blessings in your life, such as having a job and means of transportation. Reflect on the wonders of modern technology and count other positive aspects of your life. Gratitude is associated with increased happiness, reduced inflammation, and improved cardiovascular health. However, remember that gratitude should not lead to accepting an intolerable situation.
7. Carpool for companionship. Loneliness is a common downside of long commutes. The aforementioned study showed that commuters who shared their journey with others enjoyed it more. Consider carpooling to boost spirits, promote environmental sustainability, and save costs.
8. Optimize it as work time. If your commute allows for productivity, explore the possibility of incorporating it into your workday. Check if your employer permits this arrangement, enabling you to adjust your schedule accordingly. With the rise of flexible work arrangements, working on a train can be as productive as working from home. Additionally, consider working remotely at least once a week to reduce overall commuting hours.
9. Embrace it as leisure time. Transform your commute into an enjoyable experience. Listen to comedy shows, explore new music, or reconnect with old friends (while adhering to safety and legal guidelines). Singing along to your favorite tunes, regardless of skill level, can reduce stress and boost positive emotions.
10. Keep your body in motion. Combat the discomfort of sitting for extended periods during your commute. Take stretch breaks when possible on buses or trains. If you're driving, find ways to move within the limitations of your vehicle—roll your shoulders, straighten your back, or stretch your calves. For longer commutes, consider stopping at rest areas to take short walks and refresh yourself.
11. Rethink your route. Consider the trade-off between time saved and stress levels. Sometimes, shorter routes are more complex or congested, leading to increased frustration. Minimize exposure to multiple lanes, chaotic intersections, and aggressive drivers. Opt for smoother, more predictable routes to reduce stress . If your current route becomes monotonous , venture into new paths and explore unfamiliar terrain to add variety.

In conclusion, while commuting in Indonesia can be a challenging and time-consuming experience, it's important to find ways to make the most of it. By incorporating strategies to defeat monotony, embrace unpredictability, and optimize your commute for productivity or leisure, you can transform this daily journey into a more positive and fulfilling part of your day. Whether it's finding moments of solitude, engaging in active commuting, or practicing gratitude, there are opportunities to enhance your well-being and make your commute a more enjoyable experience. So, until next Monday… Let's reimagine our daily travels and discover the silver linings along the way!