Killing Time with Public Transportation

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Killing Time with Public Transportation

If you’re like me, driving can be a huge hassle. Not only can it be annoying with those cranky tailgaters, driving can get pretty expensive. Especially with our economy right now! Personally I drive more often than not, but Public transportation can be an excellent tool when it’s a long travel. How can riding the bus be a tool? Well, you can do so many more things when you’re not staring at the road for minutes on end.

So I racked my brain for things to do while waiting for a bus. Or even an activity when riding one!

1.       Fix your make up! I find this incredibly convenient when I’m sitting or standing waiting for the bus. I am always out and about and never really get a chance to check my makeup. But this down time can be an excellent time to pretty yourself up. Don’t forget your pocket mirror!

2.       Read Something. I see a lot of people who read while on the bus. Not only books, but magazines as well. Or you can even go old school and read the daily paper. You could also catch up on that homework you’ve been procrastinating. I remember when I used to always do my homework on the bus. Might as well!

3.       Use those thumbs. If you’re a gamer like me, than bringing your Gameboy, DS, PS Vita, or any other handheld will make the time go by fast. If you don’t have a handheld, check out those nifty games that are installed on your phone!

4.       Say Hi. There are a lot of interesting people on the bus, and most of the time we are crammed with them, which gives us an opportunity to start a conversation. So don’t be too shy! You can simply ask how they are doing, everyone loves talking about themselves (you know it’s true!). Another trick I have learned for starting any conversation, is to compliment the person! Complimenting is a great conversation opener because most often than not, they’ll be grateful and may even compliment you in return! However, you may run into grumpy people who may even ignore you. But on the other hand, you could also make a new best friend. Skip the mean ones and keep trying.

5.       Bring your computer. I almost always bring my computer wherever I’m going. I like  to pull out my computer when I’m sitting at the bus stop and have a few times to spare (side note: I’m doing that now!). Make sure you put your computer away at least 5 minutes before the bus is supposed to arrive. That way you aren’t rushing, because that might result in you missing your bus! Better safe than sorry!

6.       Music. I cannot believe I almost forgot this one. Music does wonders if you are waiting for something. When I listen to music and have nothing else to do, I love to just imagine the current book I’m writing. (Yes, I’m writing a book!) Listening to music is a great brainstorming tactic. It can also be a good block for strangers if you’re not in the mood for conversation!

7.       Call a Friend. I’ve done this before. One time I had to wait an hour and a half for a bus! Yikes! Call somebody and play a game you can play over the phone. Here is a list of games you can play over the phone! My favorite is 20 Questions! And of course, you could always have a nice conversation, that works too J

There is a ton of activities you can do when it comes to Public Transportation. I only listed a few of the many ideas there are out there! All you really need to solve boredom is to think creatively! Use that noggin of yours, because boredom can always be avoided.
Taya Drake

No comments:

Post a Comment