Are you ready to finally look forward to your commute each day? All it takes is a little planning on your part. Follow these tips from Buick to get your day started off right with a stress-less morning ride.
1. Embrace new life hacks. There's no shame in saving time in just about any possible way you can each morning. Things like: assemble "outfit kits" for your kids for each day of the week (hang tops and bottoms together, and tuck underwear, socks, and accessories alongside so everything is grab-and-go ready); prep slow-cooker oatmeal the night before to serve up a fast, hearty breakfast; set up a "command station" by the front door where everyone's backpacks, shoes, and jackets need to be laid out the night before; and always keep a package of single-serving milk boxes in the fridge or pantry so you always have some on hand even if you run out of the regular stuff in the morning!
2. Do a pre-departure car check. Pilots always survey the plane before a flight, and you should do the same thing with your car every evening to ensure a streamlined morning with no surprises. Make sure you have enough gas in the tank, get rid of trash, and if the weather calls for any special gear (ice scraper, umbrella, etc.), get those items ready in the car, too. Along these lines, get in the habit of giving your car some TLC with a weekly wash and vacuuming (and the occasional detailing – it's worth the splurge, especially when you have kids!) to keep your ride feeling fresh and less like a mom-mobile. It's a little luxury you'll really enjoy!
3. Cheat the clock. With children (and who are we kidding, even without) it's always a good idea to build in extra time (and then some extra time on top of that) for unexpected setbacks. That way, when your son tells you that he left his homework at home halfway to school, or the dog decides to run out of the house just as everyone is filing out the door, your morning can still be salvaged.
4. Change up your soundtrack. Instead of playing the same annoying kid tunes yet again, choose music you'll all enjoy, or opt for an entertaining podcast or audiobook. It will relax you and your children, which is especially important if you had a hectic morning.
5. Find your sweet spot. Don't settle for a less-than-comfortable position behind the wheel, especially if you share you ride with a partner who's not a similar height. Make sure you adjust each part of the driver's seat so it's just right for you, including the lumbar support if you're anticipating a long drive (your back will thank you!).
6. Take the scenic route and savor the sights. It might seem counterintuitive, but opting for less busy routes that help you avoid aggressive drivers and traffic can make for a more pleasant trip for everyone, even if doing so adds a few extra minutes to your commute.
7. Shift (mental) gears. Despite your best efforts, sometimes the inevitable happens and your morning doesn't go as planned. That's why it's always best to put everything into perspective. Keep calm. Put on your favorite music to help keep your mood positive. Remember that it's always best to arrive safe and sound. Everything else is secondary!
