Slightly off topic, but ...

Commuting for work between ORL (Orlando Executive, near Orlando
International) and CDW (near New York / Newark congested area), I have
had excessive delays, waiting for IFR release, and / or covering lots of
extra miles being vectored over several counties for separation, I
adopted a new strategy which worked really well for me.

Most of my departures were in good VMC weather, which doubled the
frustrations of delays on IFR departures. On these good-weather days, I
filed the IFR flight plan to begin at a VOR or intersection along my
intended route -- maybe 20 or 30 miles from the departure point. I would
make no mention of "IFR" to ground control or clearance delivery -- just
tell them I was northbound (substitute appropriate direction) at 3,500
(substitute appropriate VFR altitude). This generally got me going
quickly. As soon as I was out of the area that experience had taught me
was ripe with vectors, I contacted the appropriate ATC facility to
request my clearance.

Between not having to wait for IFR release, and avoiding lots of vectors,
I easily shaved 15 to 30 minutes from my weekly commute between home and
work.