Your daily commute doesn’t have to feel like lost time. Whether you ride with ZipCab, hop in a CribCab, or take public transit, there’s plenty you can accomplish from the backseat or train bench. With a little intention, your commute can become one of the most productive and energizing parts of your day. Here are five smart, unexpected ways to make every minute count.
- Learn a New Language on the Go
Language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Pimsleur are perfect for commuting. Use your ride time to work through vocabulary flashcards, listen to audio lessons, or practice short conversations. Whether you’re aiming to improve your resume or prep for an upcoming trip, your daily route can double as language school.
If you prefer a hands-free experience, apps with audio-based lessons let you learn while simply listening, making them ideal for ZipCab or RidePro riders.
- Catch Up on Podcasts That Spark Growth
Instead of mindlessly scrolling, plug into podcasts that align with your goals. Whether you’re into personal finance, career growth, wellness, or industry insights, there’s a podcast for every interest and schedule length. Try shows like The Daily, How I Built This, or The Mindset Mentor to feel sharper by the time you arrive.
If your commute home feels draining, a comedy podcast or light narrative series can help you unwind and transition from work mode to personal time.
- Shop Smart While You Ride
Commuting offers a great window to knock out errands—especially with the help of cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Fetch. Use your time in transit to:
- Refill essentials from CVS or Target
- Order weekly groceries from Albertsons or Kroger
- Buy gifts or home goods from HomeGoods or Amazon
With these platforms, you earn rewards while checking off your to-do list—no extra effort needed. It’s multitasking made efficient and rewarding.
- Start a Journaling or Gratitude Practice
Use a small notebook or a journaling app to reflect, brain-dump, or plan your day during your commute. If your mornings feel rushed, this is a great moment to center yourself. Prompts like “What’s one thing I’m looking forward to today?” or “What’s a win from yesterday?” can reshape your mindset before the day begins.
Apps like Day One allow secure and organized journaling if you prefer digital tools, making it easy to track your thoughts over time.
- Set the Tone with Morning Affirmations
Commutes offer a quiet (or at least private) space to tune into your mindset. Try starting your ride with simple, positive affirmations:
- “I’m capable and ready for today’s challenges.”
- “I bring value to the work I do.”
- “I move through the city with calm and purpose.”
You can record your own voice, use an app like ThinkUp, or even just repeat a few in your head. Pair this with a calming playlist or ambient music for a daily ritual that helps you begin with confidence.
Your commute is more than just time in transit—it’s a daily opportunity. Whether you use it to sharpen your mind, tackle your to-do list, or recharge your spirit, these small changes can have a big impact. By weaving purpose into your daily travel, especially with tools like Fetch and Fluz and other smart apps, you’ll turn idle minutes into moments that move you forward.
