Unpopular opinion: Audiobooks on my bike commute actually improve my work mornings

My bike commute used to be the worst part of my day. Listening to audiobooks has really helped. I arrive at work in a better mood and ready to focus. Does anyone have tips for choosing engaging content for a 30-minute ride? I wonder if this works for people on trains or buses too.

3 comments

3 Comments

jessica_robinson231mo ago

Wait, I actually disagree about needing simple books. My best bike commute listens are the dense ones that make me focus. Like a good history book with lots of details, it pulls my brain away from traffic completely. I binged a super complex fantasy series last month and never missed a turn. For me, if it's too simple my mind wanders to bad drivers.

the_ivan1mo ago

Agree that audiobooks can make any commute better. For your bike ride, try picking stories that are exciting but not too complex, so you don't get lost in thought and miss your turn. Honestly, this works on trains and buses too, maybe even more because you can fully zone out. I started with mystery novels because each chapter ends with a cliffhanger, pushing me to keep listening. The trick is to find a book that feels like a friend talking to you, not a lecture. Once you match the content to your ride length, you'll wonder how you ever commuted in silence.

drew_bennett241mo ago

My buddy Jake in Chicago tried listening to a complicated sci-fi audiobook on his bike ride last month. He totally missed his exit because the plot was so confusing, which made me think of @the_ivan's point about keeping it simple. Now he sticks to action thrillers and says his commute feels way shorter.