[Skip to content](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/devices/7-ways-to-make-the-most-of-a-driverless-commute#maincontent) [Newsroom](https://www.t-mobile.com/news)Toggle secondary navigation - [Network](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/network) - [Devices](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/devices) - [Un-carrier](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/un-carrier) - [Community](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/community) - [Offers](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/offers) - [Business](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/business) English [DevicesCategory](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/devices)[Story](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/story) # Going Mobile: 7 Ways to Make the Most of a Driverless Commute August 16, 2019 According to a recent Gallup survey, there’s been a decline over the past decade in the number of commuters driving themselves to work. Here’s how your devices can help make the most of your ride share or mass-transit commute.  3 min read - Facebook IconShare on Facebook - Share on Twitter - LinkedIn IconShare on LinkedIn According to a recent [Gallup survey](https://news.gallup.com/poll/241805/commuters-work-without-cars-past.aspx), there’s been a steep decline over the past decade in the number of daily commuters driving themselves to work. With more people turning to alternatives like ride shares and ever-increasing mass transit options, your smartphone has gone from merely dependable to totally indispensable. Here’s how your devices can help make the most of your commute, from learning a new language to simply taking in the world around you ##### __1. Stay updated on current events__ News happens every day, at every moment – and your commute is the perfect time to get informed. Want to scroll your way down the rail line? Get news highlights on social media or furiously attack a feed. Rather rest your eyes? Pop on a newsy podcast or dial up your favorite radio station app. ##### __2__. __Catch up with a friend__ Haven’t been great about keeping up with certain pals? Use your commute to place a catch-up call, chat with them through text, or even send them a quick email to just let them know you’re thinking about them – research shows it will [make you both happier](https://www.happify.com/hd/why-friends-make-us-happier/). ##### __3.__ __Binge a book__ So many of us complain that we can never find time to read, neglecting the fact that we have a veritable library in the palm of our hands – and even a literal one: Many local libraries these days offer e-books for lending, and of course there are a million and one ways to purchase a book for download, including tons of titles available as audiobooks. (Need somewhere to start? Check these next-level executive [“Summer Binge” lists](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/summer-recommendation-lists-from-leadership-ray-sanford-carter).) ##### __4.__ __Create a to-do list__ Organize your day (and night) as you commute. What are your priorities? What can wait? This will help you evaluate your daily goals, putting you in the [right mindset](https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/neuroscientist-really-wants-you-to-make-lists.html) to tackle your tasks with more efficiency. Use your smartphone’s voice memo or notes apps, or one of the many specific [to-list apps](https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-to-do-list-apps/) available for download. ##### __5__. __Learn a new language__ The benefits to learning a new language are many: an improved memory, stronger networking skills, enhanced multi-tasking abilities and more. Download a language app and teach yourself French, Spanish, Japanese, or whatever language sparks joy during your commute. Besides improving your cognitive skills, you’ll be ordering foods flawlessly in a new foreign tongue on [your next vacation](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/10-awesome-off-season-travel-destinations). ##### __6. Do simple exercises__ Sorry, lazybones, but not having the time is no longer a valid excuse for not working out. Whether it be tightening your abs or doing seated twists, take advantage of your commute time and incorporate [easy exercises](https://www.thedailybeast.com/8-ways-to-exercise-while-you-commute) into your daily routine — YouTube has [lots of inspo](https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=exercise%20while%20seated). You’ll get the blood flowing, relieve muscle tension and feel more energized. ##### __7. Take a breather__ Simply take more time for yourself. Destress, let your mind wander and self-reflect. Take advantage of the [Zen-inducing resources](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/mobile-mindfulness-a-zen-guide-to-using-your-device) available on your smartphone … or take time to do nothing but gaze out the window. The world is a beautiful place, and you’re right in the middle of it. If inspiration strikes you, maybe even snap a [FOMO-inducing photo](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/10-tips-for-the-perfect-social-media-shots)!   *Want to see how other professionals make the most of their devices? Check out [Mobile Diaries: My Phone Is All I Need To Do My Job](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/mobile-diaries-my-phone-Is-all-i-need-to-do-my-job-mega-megapixel)* Tags[Consumer](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/consumer)[Devices](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/devices)[Network](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/network) ## Related Stories [More Stories](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/devices) [ \ NetworkStory \ __New Travel Trend: Welcome to the World of Bleisure Travel__ \ June 03, 2019|3 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/welcome-to-the-world-of-bleisure-travel) [ \ NetworkStory \ __Roam If — and When! — You Want to: 10 Awesome Off-Season Travel Destinations__ \ May 20, 2019|6 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/10-awesome-off-season-travel-destinations) [ \ NetworkPress Release \ __T‑Mobile Readies for Impact of Hurricane Beryl, Ensuring Connectivity and Support (Updated 7/13/24)__ \ July 09, 2024|10 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/hurricane-beryl) [ \ Un-carrierPress Release \ __T‑Mobile and Major League Baseball Strike New Long-Term Deal, Creating More 5G Experiences for Fans__ \ April 06, 2023|5 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/un-carrier/mlb-renewal-2023)