Long-distance commuters might want to rethink their commitment to the road. A Swedish study found that couples in which one partner’s commute is longer than 45 minutes are 40% more likely to split up than those who live closer to work. (Or, if you prefer, work closer to where they live.)
And while travelling further from home might mean increased income and better job opportunities for the commuter, social geographer Erica Sandow found the partner often loses income or winds up taking a less qualified job close to home. Since most long-distance commuters are men, this means that many women both take home less money and take on the responsibility for the family and children.
In addition to being a relationship-killer, Annie Lowry over at Slate.com notes that long commutes can cause obesity, neck pain, loneliness, stress, and insomnia.
Her take on the topic: “If you are commuting, you are not spending quality time with your loved ones. You are not exercising, doing challenging work, having sex, petting your dog, or playing with your kids (or your Wii). You are not doing any of the things that make human beings happy.”
We like to think of Winnipeg as a big small town, but there are many commuters driving to and from surrounding bedroom communities on a daily basis. Some up to more than an hour’s drive away.
Personally, I agree with Annie Lowry. I’d rather spend my time with family and friends or hobbies.
