Get Nature Into Your Commute

According to the experts and all the studies, the length of a job commute is inversely proportional to life satisfaction — and a big contributor to job burnout.

But what if you have no choice?

While getting your commute down to its shortest possible span might seem like the wise move, a study by Barcelona Institute for Global Health shows that commuting through natural spaces leads to better mental health. For instance, getting off the freeway an exit early to drive alongside a lake, or choosing the slightly longer — but much greener — route can be highly beneficial.

For those who take public transportation, getting off a stop or two early and finishing the commute by walking alongside a park or down a tree-lined street can make a difference in your day.

As a recruiter for 25+ years, I have witnessed firsthand how a long commute can burn people out, but those who find ways to infuse it with a little jolt of self-care may have the best odds of sticking it out.