Ways to make traffic jams more bearable

[EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an article from Perf Restaurants]

MANILA, Philippines – Let’s face it: traffic in Manila gets worse daily.

Each morning, many of us wake up before sunrise to arrive to the office on time. Despite efforts in rising early, there are days we still get marked late due to inevitable traffic jams.

Traffic in the city has gotten so prevalent that social media feeds show the phenomenon as a regular source of hugot and irritation. Besides eating up a large chunk of people’s time, it affects people’s moods and their daily outlook as well. 

But there are ways to deal with this seemingly long-running nightmare.

Here are ways to combat traffic by using the transit time wisely:

1. Pop in your feel-good playlist

Music is proven to affect a person’s emotions. Don’t mind the judging stares your passengers or passersby shoot you with – whether it’s tunes from your favorite 90’s boybands, K-pop idols, EDM DJs or 70’s disco mavens, press play on your favorite set, turn up the volume and sing away. 

2. Meditate or say a quick prayer

An ideal way to start and end the day is by having a quiet, contemplative moment to align your goals and intentions. When traffic gives you a lot of down time, use the moment to reflect on important aspects of your life. Say a prayer, give yourself a pep talk or simply contemplate on your goals. This way, you will be able to channel your peaceful self in the midst of the chaotic traffic surrounding you.

3. Catch up with your friends and family

If you’re not on the driving seat, give your mom, dad, sister, or a friend you haven’t talked to in a while, a call. Perhaps the most precious resource we lose in traffic is time, which could have been spent with loved ones instead. Open your messenger apps and ask your loved ones about their day.

4. Entertain yourself with apps and car games

Use the time leisurely by unwinding through games. If you’re not on the driver’s seat, use this time to play your favorite mobile apps. But if you’re behind the wheel, you can come up with trivia or old-school games that can be easily played in your car. You can even challenge – and entertain –  yourself and get your creative juices flowing by inventing your own games or contests with your passengers. But most importantly, use the time wisely by keeping your mind working in a fun and engaging way.

If all else fails, look around and simply observe your surroundings. Check out the latest billboards, new restaurants you’ve yet to dine in, or typical sceneries that you normally wouldn’t give a second glance. For instance, have you spotted this adorable chick at the back of the bus exclaiming, ‘BK BK BK BK BK’?

Positive sceneries as such make you realize that we should look at our surroundings once in a while and appreciate the things that puts a smile on our faces.

Have you seen this chick at the back of the bus? – Rappler.com