In today's episode of the Miracle Commute podcast, I want to talk about the dreaded pothole season. As a commuter, I'm sure you can relate to the frustration of hitting a pothole out of nowhere and fearing damage to your vehicle or tire.

But beyond the inconvenience of potholes, they can also serve as a metaphor for the challenges we face in our lives and work. Just like potholes, unexpected obstacles can arise and it's up to us to navigate them safely and effectively.

To avoid hitting potholes, I've learned to be more mindful and alert on the road. I stay focused on my surroundings and adjust my speed when necessary. Sometimes, I even take a different route to avoid potholes altogether.

As we navigate through pothole season, it's important to keep our tires properly inflated and be prepared for unexpected obstacles. By staying focused and alert, we can avoid potholes and arrive at our destination safely.

Thanks for tuning in to the Miracle Commute podcast. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Google Play and check out the daily newsletter on Substack. Remember, a safe and successful commute sets the tone for the rest of your day.

Good morning, miracle commuters! Today, we’re talking about honking. Honking may seem like a funny or trivial subject, but the truth is, why do we honk at each other while we're driving? Sometimes, we honk to express joy, but most of the time, we honk because we're upset or angry or someone isn't doing what they're supposed to be doing while driving. For instance, I have honked at someone who was on their phone at a stoplight while I was behind them, or when someone cut me off or going too slow. Honking is generally seen as a way to show aggression or indicate that we are upset with someone else's behavior.

But does it have to be that way? I think that honking is also an opportunity for us to realize that, yes, we are shouting at them, and we are going out there and saying, "Hey, do what you gotta do, pay attention!" But maybe it's also an opportunity for us to think to ourselves, pay attention to ourselves at the moment, right before we honk. And before we get someone else all riled up, do we have to rush where we're going?

Of course, when we're on our way to work, it's nice to get there as soon as possible, or conversely, it's nice to get home as soon as possible after work. But most of the time, we probably could go a little slower, and it would be just fine. So, right before you hit that horn, ask yourself, is this really what I need to do right now? Will it be okay if I don't honk?

Instead of honking, maybe it's time to take a moment of pause for yourself. Be grateful for where you are on this journey. Be grateful that you are not getting upset with someone who is probably just having a bad day. Blast away today, have a wonderful week, and I will see you again on the next episode of the "Miracle Commute" podcast.

Remember, when you start your commute, you can 100% control the rest of your day.

Good morning, commuters. It's Scott, your host of the Miracle Commute podcast. Today, I want to talk about the power of living in the present moment. For me, I love to do a moment of mindfulness before I begin my day at work. However, there are days when I can't find the time for it. Sometimes I'm running late or caught up in heavy traffic. In such cases, I have to do my mindfulness routine while driving. I understand that it might not be safe to do so, but after driving for 20 years, I find that my daily commute has become like an autopilot routine. There have been times when I have reached my destination without even realizing how I got there. Thankfully, I always arrive safely.

While I do not recommend doing a full meditation while driving, I believe that it is possible to practice mindfulness techniques during your commute. In this episode, I will guide you through a meditation while you are driving. However, please remember that your safety and the safety of others on the road are your top priorities. So, if you feel uncomfortable or distracted while driving, please stop the meditation.

Let's begin the meditation. First, take a deep breath in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Fill your lungs with air and hold it for a moment before exhaling. Do this three more times. As you breathe, feel the weight of your body on the seat and focus on the present moment.

Next, set a positive intention for the day, such as a personal goal or attitude you wish to embody. Hold this intention in your heart as you journey forward.

Now, bring your awareness to your senses, one by one, without altering your driving focus. Notice the texture of the steering wheel on your hands, feel the seat supporting your body, and observe the varying shades of light and shadows on your route. Listen to the sounds around you, the hum of the engine, and the rhythm of the tires against the road. If you're comfortable, allow a small smile to grace your lips as you acknowledge the moment of connection.

Think of three things you're grateful for right now, such as the ability to breathe, the opportunity to move forward toward your goals, or the warmth of the sun through the window. Let this feeling of gratitude fill you up with each breath.

As you near the end of this meditation, visualize any stress or tension you're holding as a color or shape. With each exhale, imagine it dissolving or moving away from you, leaving your body and mind. With each inhale, draw a sense of renewal, picturing it as a bright, energizing color or light filling you with vitality and peace.

Finally, as you conclude your driving meditation, gently bring your full awareness back to the present moment. Remind yourself of your intention for the day and carry the sense of calm, focus, and gratitude with you. Remember, the journey is not about reaching the destination, but about embracing each moment along the way.

Take care and have a peaceful commute.