No one will ever honestly know what it is like to be a truck driver unless they've done it. No matter how many times you've watched trucker shows or heard stories, you won't ever know the actual reality of it. It takes a lot of patience and strength to be indeed a good truck driver, which is why you must take care of yourself while you are on the road. Above all else make sure to always be safe on the road.
Know what you need
Having a healthy lifestyle is very important when you are on the roads and keeping that lifestyle is very hard when you are sitting down for most of your job. Knowing what you need is important. This is why it is crucial that you talk to your dispatcher about your needs and let them know when you need a break and if you need extra sleep before your next shift. There will be nights where you may be sleeping next to some construction sites or near a train station, which might make it hard to get a decent amount of sleep, so don't be afraid to ask for more if you need it.
Get plenty of sleep
Yeah, I know, we've already mentioned the sleep part, but I want to go over it a little more. If you are on the roads for a long time, there's bound to be times when you want to hang out with your buds and take a break from the roads for a little while. Sometimes this means you don't get the sleep you need for your next shift. Make sure to plan your time according to your sleep schedule for the safety of you and other drivers on the roads.
Have an exercise routine daily schedule
Okay, don't laugh at me. I know life is crazy on the roads, and finding the time to exercise, spend time with family, and drive is challenging. I'm not trying to pretend like it's not. But, don't you hate coming home exhausted? Feeling like you're going to pass out the second, you walk in the door? Having a daily exercise routine will help that go away. Maybe not completely, but a lot more than you'd think. Getting up to exercise can change your life and your happiness. It's proven that exercise increases your strength, joy and helps decrease tiredness.
Eat healthy
I know eating fast food and junk food are super easy when you're on the roads. Mainly because your body needs to be doing something while driving, and snacking is very common. Just make sure you grab a bag of grapes rather than a bag of chips. Instead of eating fast food, make your lunches or find health food stores or restaurants around you instead of grabbing something from Mc. Donalds.
Schedule time for family
Don't forget about your loved ones. You may be wiped out at the end of your long days but make sure you always tell them how much you love them and make time for them, even if that means taking a day off every once in a while to spend with them. It's worth it, I promise.
Video chatting with friends and family
When it gets lonely in your truck on your own, call family and talk to them. You might not realize how much that would mean to them. Besides, it will make your drive a little less long. Make sure you do that when you are off the roads at a truck stop or motel as far as video chatting. But, don't forget to do it. You need to remember the people in your life and make time for them too.
