Some folks would argue that routine is bad for you, while some suggest it creates boredom for tasks. Then there are those that believe that our job as truck drivers is one big routine already, as you are driving every day for long periods of time. Conversely, many say there is no way to create a routine as a professional driver because you are not in control of your day.
\nI tend to think a different way: I believe that you can create a routine in your position as a professional driver and doing so is the key to a successful career. Even if you are not in complete control over where you will be and when, you can make choices to bring a good routine into your work.<\/p>\n
You may be asking yourself \u201chow creating a routine can help me have a successful career?\u201d The truth is that a routine helps to increase your efficiency which may allow for more miles or time to do other things. A routine helps you automate tasks in your mind that you do all the time and learn ways to make them less timely. A routine also allows you to focus on what is important to you and make sure that those items have been covered within your daily tasks. You may already have a routine and not even know it. Do you start each day at the same time? Do you dedicate yourself to an exercise program while on the road? Do you eat meals at the same times each day? All of these things can be part of a routine.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s look at a sample routine of mine, when I was running a backhaul back to the yard:<\/p>\n
I would aim to be at my delivery first thing in the morning, return to my yard and wash my truck. Afterwards I went to the gym returning back by lunch time and prepared for my load leaving that afternoon.<\/p>\n
If I was in the U.S. my routine was as follows: I aimed to deliver my load by 8:00am. Once unloaded, I would receive my next load assignment and start in the direction of my pickup.<\/p>\n
I would stop at a truckstop, do some exercises in my truck (I had a portable stair stepper), shower and eat a good breakfast.<\/p>\n
Of course there should always be flexibility in your routine, but it gives a good map of how to accomplish many things effectively and efficiently. A routine can include anything from calling your family at the same time each day to doing your truck inspection regularly. Think about how a routine can help your career by making you more efficient.<\/p>\n
About the Author<\/b><\/p>\n