Being on the road for weeks at a time for several years is enough to cause burnout amongst even the best and most professional truck drivers. According to data from truck driver training programs, the average truck driver spends about 300 days on the road annually. This leaves only 65 days per day for rest, recovery, and time with family.
When truck drivers suffer from burnout, they show signs and symptoms like changes in sleep habits, diminished work performance, emotional exhaustion, and increased frustration and irritability. These symptoms can be addressed quickly and effectively if employers are prompt and aware. Follow these tips to help truck drivers stay motivated.
Embrace vacations and regular breaks
Although it varies depending on what company you work at, all truck drivers receive some sort of vacation time that they’re encouraged to take. Since working as a truck driver is tiring, time intensive, and requires high concentration, it’s important to take blocks of time off to decompress. While some truck drivers enjoy vacationing, spending time and home relaxing with friends and family is a great way to feel refreshed and ready to take on your next job.
Taking off while on the road is also important to help improve focus and alertness. While on break, try taking a nap in your cab, meditating, walking, and stretching. These activities improve your mood and increase blood flow throughout your body.
Use electronic logs
Electronic logs are one of the greatest tools for ensuring truck drivers are not overworking themselves. Instead of logging your time on paper or an app, an electronic logging device works by plugging into a vehicle’s onboard diagnostics port and pulling data directly from the engine. This data includes whether the engine is on or off, how much fuel has been used, and how far was traveled. You’ll never be left guessing when you should a break with this new and improved technology.
Regulate sleep patterns
Truck drivers tend to have irregular sleep patterns, especially if they work night shifts. Truck drivers should avoid too much screen time at night instead of reading a book or practicing mindfulness before bed. They should also keep their sleeping area as dark and inviting as possible to promote better sleep quality.
We’d love to have you join our truck driving team at Double D Distribution, and we are hiring regularly! Visit our website to learn more about the truck driving services we offer and what positions are currently open.
