Becoming a truck Driver can certainly be an exciting career choice. One that comes with independence, the thrill of the open road, picture-perfect scenery and the opportunity to explore are some of the perks of this lifestyle. Trucking can be an adventure and a great way to see the country.
However, this career like most, comes with some disadvantages. Being a truck Driver can be very isolating and demanding and may influence your lifestyle. In these circumstances, your home life, health and personal relationships may change. So how can you find the balance with the ongoing struggle between having an income and having a life?
Learn how to stay entertained. In every job and industry, we occasionally tend to zone-out or slip into autopilot mode. Staying focused on a specific task for hours on end can become monotonous and boring. One way to avoid this autopilot default is to keep your mind stimulated. You have an awful lot of personal time at your disposal. It’s time to learn how to use it to entertain and educate yourself.
- Download audio books.
- Subscribe to satellite radio.
- Download podcasts.
Don’t forget exercise. As a Driver, you remain seated for many hours at a time. This is physically taxing on your body and can strain your back, neck and your legs. Along with not moving, it’s easy to assume that you’re not burning calories or building any muscle. Consider researching types of stretching and exercises. Remember! Exercising releases endorphins, happy hormones! This will help balance your mood!
Maintain healthy eating habits. The health of truck drivers is a serious concern within the industry. Many drivers have had their commercial driver’s licence revoked or suspended due to problems like diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea. Making healthier choices is easier said than done, especially with all of the unhealthy temptations that truckers have to deal with at truck stops. When determining what you’re going to eat, remember to avoid the fried food. Try grilled meats instead of crispy. Choose items that are lower in sodium and increase the amount of fresh fruit and vegetables you consume each day.
Communicate with others often. We need to communicate with others. Connection is vital when you are on the road. Long trips prove to be challenging, especially for Drivers with families at home. This can put a toll on your relationships. Try to keep others informed. Letting your spouse know where you will be at will help decrease the distance they may be feeling. Stay in touch.
Having a plan is a solid start to building a strong foundation. Even though you’re behind the wheel, you’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish in this career.