Driver burnout

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Canadianhauler21, Jun 15, 2021.

  1. Canadianhauler21

    Canadianhauler21 Heavy Load Member

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    Lately I have absolutely dreaded going to work. When my day starts I can't wait for it to be over. I run regional, so I'm home nearly everyday. Even being home everyday I do not enjoy driving anymore. I have had this happen before but never to this extent. I took a one month vacation and it set me right again.

    I have over two years experience now, I have absolutely loved driving up until the last week or so. I basically have to force myself to work. Now I'm thinking what I should do? Do I need time off? A vacation? Leave the industry for a bit? I'm not sure.

    Just wondering if any of you fellow drivers ever had "driver burnout".
     
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  3. Cattleman84

    Cattleman84 Road Train Member

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    Many of us have experienced this... Often a week or 2 off helps, sometimes longer. I've also found that a change in routes helps, different country and sights can make a huge difference. Ive even arranged with my boss to work in the shop for a couple weeks if I couldn't afford the time off. Its amazing how fast you will be wanting back in the truck after fixing other idiots screw ups, or changing oil and brakes... Lol
     
  4. '88K100

    '88K100 Road Train Member

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    See your doctor and get him to put you on stress leave for the summer. Don’t be a wanker and only take 2 weeks,,,go for 8 weeks off. Not as lucrative as working but a heck of a lot more fun,,,,then get a line haul job…
     
  5. TokyoJoe

    TokyoJoe Road Train Member

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    I drove from 2015-2016 then took most of 2017 off and all of 2018 off on vacation in the Philippines. Been at it again since early 2019 driving with my wife in the truck but just last week quit again to try to find something local after a month vacation.

    With everybody hiring now why not just look around at a chance to switch it up?

    I told the company I just quit that if I didn't find anything that I like then they'll probably be hearing from me in a couple months.
     
  6. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    Doing long haul can suck for sure.

    Drive. Sleep. Drive. Sleep.

    That's basically all you do.
     
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  7. Canadianhauler21

    Canadianhauler21 Heavy Load Member

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    Thanks for the reply, I think a change of scenery could be good. I have been running the same routes for months on end. But it all truth I think I need a few weeks off. I work for a small fleet of 18 trucks, one truck sitting puts a dent on their bottom line. I may just end up getting fired or have to quit.
    Yeah, very true. It may be time for me to just come local instead. Even regional I just sleep at home and return to work. I'm guessing you run local?
    Looks like you got that figured out. Honestly it seems you drive but also enjoy life too when you can. I think a vacation may be right up my alley. If that doesn't work I'll probably switch carriers.
     
    Lumper Humper Thanks this.
  8. Dennixx

    Dennixx Road Train Member

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    I've been running for decades now and still love the drive.but it's rare I can get 5 minutes away from work before I have to mutter " you dumb SOB " at some moron.
    Like water off a duck you just let the petty things you can't control go.

    Only you can decide whether your mental health is more valuable then the paycheck but my personal philosophy has always been if you don't like the situation you're in change it or leave it...
    Good luck on the journey.
     
    okiedokie, MACK E-6, D.Tibbitt and 4 others Thank this.
  9. Elroythekid

    Elroythekid Road Train Member

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    This isn't for everyone, and it's a REAL COMMITMENT. I have always had a dog with me, makes me stop more and smell the Rose's, "someone to talk to".. she actually knows when I'm stressed and will come to the drivers seat put her paws on my leg and give me a kiss to get me level again.
    I had to leave her home for a bit, and I was the same as you, hated my days, drive sleep repeat.

    Once again... a dog is a lifelong commitment, and it's not for everyone.
     

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  10. buzzarddriver

    buzzarddriver Road Train Member

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  11. '88K100

    '88K100 Road Train Member

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    ‘92 i took 18 months off,,had been on long haul. Went to school for upgrades, considered other careers then decided on local work
    First gravel,,that sucked, then chips,,,sucked even worse, then linehaul …schedule, home daily, no weekends.
     
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