Being a truck driver comes with many challenges. One of the challenges of the job that nobody told you about was the loneliness. Truck driving is by nature a solitary profession. A little solitude every once in a while is good for a person. But spending too much time alone on your long haul can certainly take a toll on you. With this in mind, we’ve laid out a few tips on how to cope with loneliness on your route.
It can get lonely on the road. Here are some tips to stave off loneliness on your route.
Make Phone Calls
Phone calls aren’t a perfect substitute for real, one-on-one interaction. But, especially with the advent of video chat, it has come pretty close. When you get the chance, give your loved ones at home a call. Your spouse is probably just as lonely as you are.
That said, don’t downplay the dangers of distracted driving. Under no circumstances should you text and drive. But you can safely engage in a conversation over the phone while driving, so long as you use a hands-free system. Using the speakerphone and putting it in your cupholder might work just fine.
Make Plans for Your Return
Tying in with our previous point, it might help you cope with loneliness to make plans for your return home. On a phone call with your loved ones, why not plan your next vacation? Or maybe just a weekend fishing trip? You might be surprised how something so simple as making plans can make the time fly when you’re on the road.
Listen to Podcasts
There’s nothing wrong with listening to music when you’re on the road—whatever makes the hours go by is well and good. But consider changing your programming every once in a while. These days, podcasts are readily available for people about almost any topic.
Listening to a person talking is a more effective way to combat loneliness than listening to music. You could also consider listening to stand-up comedy. A little laughter can help quite a bit, too.
Take a Pet With You
Some companies allow their truck drivers to bring pets with them on the road. If your company does the same, you might want to take advantage of it. It could be that you were drawn to truck driving precisely because it didn’t involve too much human interaction. But many people could still benefit from the companionship of an animal.
Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star for all Your Trucking Needs!
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Tags: loneliness, truck driving, trucking basics