How do you keep from feeling misanthropic during your commute?
I commute to London three days a week, which involves a national train, two tube rides, and a walk through a busy tourist area (unfortunately, there’s no alternative route to the office). Deep down, I know I’m not a misanthropic person, but my commute often makes me feel that way. I find myself frustrated, stressed, and angry, and I’m concerned that this could negatively impact my mental health over time.
Interestingly, I don’t mind the journey itself; I appreciate the scenic views and usually get a lot of reading done. The real challenge is other passengers getting under my skin. It’s the little things—like people letting cold air into the station, putting their feet on seats, making loud phone calls, or blasting TikToks. There are also those who block walkways, walk really slowly, stop abruptly, or stand on the wrong side of escalators. While there’s a bit of signage regarding escalators, there’s not much else to discourage these behaviors, aside from some posters reminding us to be patient with fellow commuters!
How do you manage these annoyances over the long haul if you’re a regular commuter? I try mantras, deep breathing, and focusing on my reading, but they only help to an extent!
It sounds like you’re dealing with some really frustrating situations on your commute! First off, it’s great that you recognize the potential impact it’s having on your mental health and are proactively seeking ways to cope. Here are a few strategies that might help you maintain a more positive outlook during those tricky moments:
Mindfulness Practice: Building on your current mantra and deep breathing techniques, consider integrating mindfulness meditation tailored for commuters. Even just a few minutes of focused breathing or grounding exercises can help bring you back to a calmer state when you feel overwhelmed.
Set Boundaries: When it comes to noise, investing in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can help. You can listen to calming music, podcasts, or audiobooks—something engaging that can distract you from the distracting behaviors of others.
Perspective-Taking: Try to remind yourself that everyone is human and may be having a tough day. Reflecting on their potential struggles can help foster empathy instead of frustration. You might consider imagining their backstory as a way to lighten your feelings toward their actions.
Create a Positive Routine: Consider incorporating small rituals into your commute. Whether it’s treating yourself to a favorite drink before you board the train or having a specifically curated playlist that lifts your spirits, having something to look forward to can change your mindset.
Engage with Others: If you see the same people on your commute often, a friendly smile or nod can foster a sense of community. Sometimes engaging in a small conversation can shift your focus from irritation to connection.
Change Your Perspective: Reframe your thoughts about the commute. Instead of seeing it as an annoyance, try to view it as an opportunity for self-reflection, personal growth, or uninterrupted ‘me time.’
Reassess Your Route: While it might not be possible to change your path entirely, consider if there are small alterations that could make a difference, like getting off a station earlier or exploring side streets where you may encounter fewer people.
Take Breaks: If your schedule allows, consider allowing break time at your destination to decompress. Even a short walk or a few minutes of quiet reflection can help ease the transition from commute to work mode.
Remember, it’s okay to feel frustrated—many people share your sentiments about daily commuting! Finding coping mechanisms that focus on what you can control will help create a more enjoyable experience. Good luck, and I hope your commute becomes a little smoother!