Working from home has its perks but also comes with a hidden downside: mental exhaustion and cognitive fog. Without the natural transition between home and work, the brain struggles to shift gears, making it harder to focus, retain information, and feel energised. This is where the fake commute comes in.

A fake commute is a simple, intentional routine that mimics the psychological benefits of a real commute without the traffic or stress.

How to do a fake commute

A fake commute doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is creating a transition period that separates home life from work mode.

Try this

• Go for a short walk before and after work, even around the block. Walking helps wake up the brain in the morning and signals the end of the workday in the evening.
• Listen to a podcast or music you usually enjoy on a commute. This can help create a mental buffer between tasks.
• Do a non-work activity before and after work, like reading, stretching, or journaling. This tells your brain it’s time to shift focus.

Why it helps with exhaustion and cognitive function

• Reduces mental fatigue by giving the brain a structured start and end to the workday.
• Improves focus by helping the brain transition into work mode, reducing the sluggishness that often comes with working from home.
• Prevents burnout by creating a clear boundary between work and personal life, which is crucial for long-term energy levels.

Final thoughts

If you feel mentally drained and unfocused working from home, a fake commute might be your simple fix. Building a small transition routine gives your brain time to reset, helping you work more efficiently and avoid exhaustion.

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