On my way into work this morning I saw that gas prices surpassed $4.00 a gallon. In addition to changing the driving and purchasing habits of individuals, high fuel prices are causing more businesses to rethink the traditional work week, driving change for the better. An article in the Pioneer Press explains how several Twin City businesses are looking at ways to help employees deal with the increasing cost of the commute. Among the changes, more telecommuting and 4-day work weeks. As someone who used to spend between one and two hours a day commuting, these are welcome changes, regardless of gas prices.

So what are more positive changes that we will see as a result of high gas prices? Over the next week, the 3LUXE Best Of The Days will feature “Best Ofs” that can help you live life to the fullest while promoting a “greener” lifestyle that benefits us all.

The most obvious changes are directly related to fuel prices and how we get where we’re going. Hybrid and electric cars are continuously improving, but with consumers looking for more alternatives, auto companies are finally getting serious about making fuel efficient cars and trucks. But more fun than the advances in cars, is the surge in scooter sales. This is a fun alternative for motoring around town and according to MSNBC sales are up around 25%.

In addition to fuel saving vehicles, there are many other things we can do that not only help us save fuel, but allow us to get more out of life. As I mentioned above, there is more telecommuting taking place, and let’s face it who wouldn’t like to take some of their life back from the drudgery of a commute. The accelerating trend in the home office is fueling sales for home office furniture, the most basic need, a desk.

Summer vacations are also changing this year as more families look to parks and recreation areas that allow them to enjoy their own “backyard”. Many of us here at 3LUXE enjoy the outdoors and know that when you’re “roughing it”, it’s a good idea to have the best. 3LUXE recently updated our “Best Of” camping categories, including tents and sleeping bags for Summer 2008.

Another thing we’ve witnessed at 3LUXE is that many of the items that have been reserved for recreation, are finding their way back into our everyday lives. The easiest to spot is the bike. Here in the US many bikes are purchased solely for recreation and exercise, but you’re seeing more of us tune them up and ride into work. I doubt many would argue that a bike ride in the morning isn’t more relaxing than being stuck in a car.

Next time your at the gas pump grumbling about prices, take a moment to think about how you can change your habits to get more out of life. Maybe you’ll even try skateboarding into work (as someone who’s done it, I would stick to biking)?

All the best,
Bill