For many Americans, long and dull commutes are a part of everyday life. What happens during your drive to work can either make you feel like you were born to win or leave you on-edge before the really stressful part of the day begins: work! And while the Chevrolet Cruze, in eco-friendly style, will alleviate a good deal of the stress of driving (Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel gets the best highway fuel economy of any gasoline-only or diesel car in America†), you’re going to have to do some of the legwork, too. Here are some helpful hints for controlling your stress levels when you’re on the road.
Download the “Traffic Talk” app, which gives you real time, crowd-sourced updates from other drivers. Your fellow road-warriors will report which route is full of bottlenecks, or that there’s a construction site on your regular path to work. Plus, the audio-format app is hands-free, so you’ll have no trouble keeping your eyes on the road while your helpful driving buddies keep you up to speed—literally.
Don’t ride alone. If you have a co-worker who lives in your vicinity, organize a carpool and make commuting a social event (or don’t, if your co-worker is yet another source of stress). Even if you don’t have anyone to carpool with, create a congenial atmosphere: Listening to an audiobook, a podcast or your favorite band is a great way to stay upbeat when stuck in traffic—and it gives you an opportunity to catch up on whatever novel everyone’s losing their minds over this week.
Prepare for world domination the night before. Set up your coffee machine, take out the garbage, figure out what you’re going to wear, make your lunch. Avoiding a chaotic morning before you even get into the driver’s seat is paramount to enjoying your commute.
Avoid your email. You’re not going to get a head start on your day by reading emails while you’re stuck in gridlock—not to mention the fact that it’s unsafe, and illegal.
Chill out. Try the iChillOut app, which features a ton of relaxing soundscapes, such as rhythmic ocean waves and rainstorms. If meditation is more your scene, guided voice apps like Relax & Rest Guided Meditations will also instill calm. Namaste, and happy driving!