The average travel time to work in the United States is 25.4 minutes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Round-trip, you're looking at almost an hour of your day that could be used to learn, work, read, talk, exercise or relax. Here are ten ways to turn a passive commute into an active adventure! 
1.) Do something you find personally rewarding.
If you want to avoid thinking about work on the way to work, go for it! Use your commute as personal time to recharge your batteries and focus on yourself. This time could be great for mindful alone time. While it's listening to your favorite music, reading a book or meditating, this is an excellent opportunity to forget about your responsibilities for a few moments and enjoy a little self-time.
2.) Listen to a podcast.
Podcasts are easily one of our favorite ways to make a commute more productive. Whether it's starting the day off laughing with "The Daily Show" or enjoying a few educational lessons from "Stuff You Missed in History Class," there's a podcast for every personality. You can use this opportunity to learn more about a new topic you're interested in, or expand your horizons on a subject related to work. Browse podbay.fm for a pretty complete list of available podcasts.
3.) Take notes.
A highly productive way to use your commute is to take the time to organize your thoughts and tasks for the day. If you're driving, stay focused on the road and record your thoughts using voice notes apps like Tote Notes (Android), Dragon Dictation (iPhone), Evernote or Google Docs. Some of these are able to integrate with your bluetooth device so you don't have to take your eyes off the drive.
4.) Sink into some deep thought.
Once you get into the office, you'll likely be bogged down by tiny details and a huge e-mail inbox. Use this time to think of some big picture ideas or solve problems. You can also read a book on professional development, go over talking points for a meeting, practice a sales pitch or brainstorm an idea for a new creative campaign.
5.) Exercise!
Bike or jog to work, get off your bus or train a few stops earlier, or park the car farther away to enjoy a nice walk to the office. A morning walk is perfect for getting your brain and body going; plus, it also gives you time to enjoy some of the other activities we've listed here. Double-dip by listening to a podcast or taking voice notes at the same time!
6.) Catch up with friends and/or family.
When was the last time you called your mother? Your commute can be a great time to catch up with people via phone (hands free, please!). It's a good way to regularly contact the people you're close to without having to carve out extra time in a really busy day.
7.) Pay your bills.
If you don't have your bills set up to auto-pay, this is the perfect time to check off this often-overlooked personal task. Many banks and utility companies offer smartphone apps that make it super easy to pay bills while you're on your way to work.
8.) Relax.
Dealing with traffic, running late, and last-minute deadlines are just a few factors that can contribute to the stress of your daily trip to work. Take this time to intentionally relax. Take five deep breaths from your diaphragm. Roll and shake your shoulders, loosen your grip on the steering wheel and spread out your fingers. Most individuals have a tendency to hold tension in their neck and back, so focus on keeping yours relaxed and stretch your neck from side to side when you’re safely at a stop.
How do you make the most of your daily commute? Comment below. Plus, find the average time it takes to commute to work in your zipcode here. 
