Nowadays, more and more people are commuting long distances to work
. This is due to the fact that finding jobs is more difficult thanks to the recent jobs slump, so prospective workers are forced to look further afield for jobs but are unable to relocate for them.
If you are part of this large selection of people and you drive to work rather than taking public transport you will undoubtedly cross paths with the motorway on your way to and from work every day. Many commuters have somewhat of a love/hate relationship with the UKs motorways and if you find yourself getting increasingly annoyed with bad traffic there are a number of ways you can relieve your stress.
Before you leave home or work always check the traffic updates. This can significantly reduce the amount of time that you end up being stuck in traffic, as you will be able to plan your route home around the heavily congested areas.
Following on the heels of this is the fact that you should always know a few different ways back to your house that dont involve the motorway system. Though travelling along A-roads and private streets may seem like it takes longer but they can actually get you home faster when compared to a journey spent stuck in a traffic jam.
If you do have the misfortunate to get caught up in the traffic on the motorway always remember that road rage will get you nowhere. Try to stay calm and remind yourself that it isnt the surrounding drivers fault that the traffic is bad. Turn on the radio and listen for the traffic news and try to find out which areas are affected and why; this will give you an idea of the expected waiting times as well. If this only increases your annoyance, put a CD on instead and listen to your favourite music to try and get your mind off the traffic.
When you are stuck on the motorway be as mindful of other drivers as possible. Everyone around you will be as annoyed by the traffic as you are, and sometimes accidents can happen because of that, but being involved in a fender bender definitely wont improve your mood.
Another important thing to remember is that managing your time more effectively could help to decrease the amount of time you spend in traffic. Try to stay on time to avoid traffic and you will be able to get home faster.