If you are a long-distance trucker, on the road for weeks at a time, it can be difficult to stay connected and engaged with those you hold near and dear. Below are tips on how to maximize time with family when you are home, and how to leverage modern technology to stay connected and engaged while on the road.
Talk, Text, and Video Chat
Long haul truck drivers, who’ve been driving before the invention of modern day mobile communication, can tell you what an impact it has made on the quality of on the road communication. While you are still sure to drive through some dead zones, where service is minimal at best, take a minute at each rest stop or weigh station to send a quick text to your spouse, kids, or closest friends and family.
When you’re at lunch or done driving for the day, call your loved ones. If they aren’t home, always leave a voice mail.
Video chat as often as you can, including sending your loved ones a video they can play when they want to see you and hear your voice. Also, use video to have your loved ones record the sporting events and extracurricular activities you miss while on the road. Bonus points if you can live stream. You can even utilize video to help your kids with their homework.
Make the Most of Your Time at Home
We know, when you get home, you want to enjoy all the comforts of being home—especially sleeping in your own bed. As tempting as it is to enjoy being still, this is the time for you to spend quality time with your loved ones. Time together doesn’t have to be anything over the top, but it does have to be undistracted. Yes, there will be times when it feels like you are out of the loop and that your spouse and kid’s life can easily go on without you—but now is the time to join in to ensure you stay connected. Remember those videos of your kid’s events? Now is a great time to watch together.
Share Your Travels
You might be familiar with the routes you drive, but don’t lose sight of the fact that most people don’t have the time or resources to travel as much as you do. Take lots of photos of the scenic views and share them to Facebook or send via text or email. As you learn fun facts about the places you travel, share them with family. Send post cards while on the road or start a collection of state or city magnets, rocks, state slogan stickers, or whatever your loved ones would like or collect. Also, use your travels to help your kids learn about geography. If your company allows it, consider the option of having your family ride along with you during breaks from school.
It will take effort on your part, but without communication with your family and friends, driving will become a lonely way to live your life.
Please do not risk your life or the life of others by texting, talking on the phone or taking photos while driving.
Written by Hunter Tires Editorial Team
Buy Commercial Tires Online. Hunter Tires Sells Semi Tires and Bus Tires.
