If you’ve ever felt drained before even starting your workday, your commute might be to blame.
A study by Annie Barreck from the University of Montreal’s School of Industrial Relations reveals that commuting length, distance, and mode of transport significantly impact stress levels, potentially leading to burnout.
Barreck’s research, presented at the 83rd Congrès de l’Acfas, involved 1,942 individuals aged 17 to 69 across 63 organizations in Quebec, Canada. (Commuting stress factors can lead to burnout – Business Standard, You’re driving yourself to burnout, literally – ScienceDaily)
Key findings indicate that commutes exceeding 20 minutes increase the risk of burnout, with those over 35 minutes correlating with heightened cynicism towards one’s job.
Moreover, the mode of transportation plays a crucial role.
For instance, car passengers experience more stress than drivers due to a perceived lack of control.
Similarly, cyclists in suburban areas report higher stress levels compared to their urban counterparts, likely due to inadequate cycling infrastructure. (You’re driving yourself to burnout, literally – ScienceDaily)
Challenging Assumptions
Contrary to popular belief, commuting to rural or suburban areas doesn’t necessarily alleviate stress.
Barreck’s study found that individuals commuting to these areas via public transit often feel less effective at work.
This is attributed to unreliable public transportation in rural regions, leading to unforeseen delays and increased stress carried into the workplace. (Commuting stress factors can lead to burnout – Business Standard)
Additionally, while urban public transit users benefit from more reliable services, reducing burnout symptoms, those in rural areas face the opposite.
The lack of frequent and dependable transit options in less populated regions exacerbates commuting stress.
Strategies for Mitigating Commuting Stress
Employers can play a pivotal role in reducing commuting-induced burnout.
Barreck suggests that flexible commuting arrangements, such as staggered work hours or remote work options, can enhance employee efficiency and mental well-being.
In the context of skill shortages, facilitating better commuting experiences can also aid in attracting and retaining talent. (The Commute, Not the Job, May Cause Burnout – Personal Best …, You’re driving yourself to burnout, literally – ScienceDaily)
For employees, exploring alternative commuting methods or adjusting travel times to avoid peak hours may alleviate stress.
Advocating for improved infrastructure, like dedicated bike lanes and reliable public transit, especially in suburban and rural areas, can also make a significant difference.
Conclusion
Commuting is more than just a daily routine; it’s a significant factor influencing mental health and job satisfaction.
By acknowledging the impact of commuting on stress and burnout, both employers and employees can take proactive steps to create healthier work environments. (Commuting stress factors can lead to burnout – Business Standard)
References:
- Université de Montréal. “You’re driving yourself to burnout, literally.” ScienceDaily, 26 May 2015. (You’re driving yourself to burnout, literally – ScienceDaily)
- Nield, D. “Here’s How Your Daily Commute Could Be Ruining Your Health.” ScienceAlert, 29 May 2015. (Here’s How Your Daily Commute Could Be Ruining Your Health)
- Baker, S. “The Commute, Not the Job, May Cause Burnout.” Personal Best, 14 Sept. 2016. (The Commute, Not the Job, May Cause Burnout – Personal Best …)
- “Commuting stress factors can lead to burnout.” Business Standard, 27 May 2015. (Commuting stress factors can lead to burnout – Business Standard)
- Shoemaker, N. “Your Commute May Be Burning You Out.” Big Think, 27 May 2015. (Your Commute May Be Burning You Out – Big Think)
- Johanna, S. “Commuting More Than 20 Minutes to Work in Big Cities Leads to Exhaustion and Burnout.” Medindia, 30 May 2015. (Commuting More Than 20 Minutes to Work in Big Cities Leads to …)
