A workforce poll indicated that upwards of 40 percent of adults were ready to quit their jobs because they felt burned out. Among the top reasons given for these feelings were lack of appreciation for their hard work and overburdened schedules. Unfortunately, people in the trucking trades are not immune to burnout, and many echo the same sentiments about why they are considering opting out.
Given truck drivers earn good salaries and enjoy industry-leading job security, it may be prudent to take diligent steps to curb burnout rather than quit. Commonsense, and workplace studies, indicate that people across sectors experience burnout for many of the same reasons. By employing the following strategies, CDL professionals can take the wheel and steer themselves along healthier routes.
- Fuel The Body: It’s not unusual for truckers to practice poor eating habits. From quick-energy foods loaded with sugar and caffeine to low-calorie diets aimed at bodyweight reduction, too many don’t get the nutrition they require. It’s essential to take steps to plan healthy meals that include fruits, vegetables, and low-fat proteins. And when a trucker gets that lack-of-food headache, pull over and eat.
- Fuel The Mind: The freight-hauling trades exact a toll on mental health. That’s largely because CDL-holders spend long hours alone. Add the stress of driving through heavy traffic with sometimes reckless passenger vehicles weaving and drivers find themselves on an emotional rollercoaster. Some strategies that help calm the emotional waters include mindful meditation, video conferencing with loved ones more frequently, and listening to positive music while logging miles.
- Relax During Off-Duty Hours: Truckers spend a great deal of their time thinking about life issues. When they finally get off-duty time, too man spend it paying bills, researching future projects, or dealing with stressful issues. Consider touching base with loved ones and then getting off electronics. Consider the things that help you unwind, such as taking a hike, going fishing, watching sports, and doing nothing at all.
- Create A Roadside Exercise Regimen: It’s important not to squander an FMCSA-mandated break from hours of service by sitting on a rest area bench eating a sandwich and staring at a cell phone screen. These required work stoppages present an opportunity to get the blood pumping and muscles contracting. Consider crafting a 15-minute exercise routine that includes sit-ups, push-ups, and jumping jacks. If those don’t make sense for you, consider using a step-counter and walking a set distance each day. Exercise helps reduce stress, anxiety and can curb burnout.
- Get A Good Night’s Sleep: Nothing helps reinvigorate the mind and body like a sound 8 hours of restful sleep. To ensure that happens, truckers would be well-served to avoid caffeinated beverages and sugar ahead of bedtime. Also, establish a standard sleep schedule and employ strategies such as listening to soothing music to help you wind down.
It would be a shame to leave the truck driving trades due to burnout. Truth be told, the grass is not necessarily greener in other occupations. By taking proactive measures to reduce stress and increase health and wellness, burnout can be avoided.
Sources: healthytruck.org, smart-trucking.com
My burnout is caused from dealing with traffic and the stupid things they do. Including other “truck drivers”.