In a recent Good Dads podcast episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Thomas Miller, a dedicated truck driver for Prime with over 27 years of marriage under his belt and two beautiful daughters. Thomas shared his insights on the challenges of being a truck driver while maintaining a loving and connected family life. In this blog post, we’ll delve into Thomas’s valuable advice on how you can support your children, spouse, and family while working on the road.
Prioritize Communication
Thomas emphasized the importance of open and consistent communication with your spouse and family while you’re on the road. Being away from home for extended periods can be tough, especially when your loved ones need you for various reasons. Whether it’s a broken lawnmower, a kid in trouble or simply a need for emotional support, staying in touch can help bridge the gap.
With modern technology at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to maintain constant communication. Thomas shared that as a truck driver, he made it a point to be reachable by his family at any time. This allowed his kids to grow up knowing they could contact him whenever they needed, alleviating their concerns about their dad’s absence.
Establish a Support System
A crucial aspect of successfully navigating a career on the road is having a strong support system in place. Thomas mentioned that his family has a rich history of truck driving, with his father, uncles, cousins and brothers all being part of the industry. This background provided him with a network of understanding individuals who could offer guidance and support when needed.
Whether it’s your family or fellow drivers, having people who understand the challenges you face can be immensely comforting. It creates a sense of community and camaraderie that helps ease the stress of being away from home.
Safety First
Safety is paramount when you’re a truck driver. Ensuring your own safety and the safety of those on the road is not only your responsibility but also a way to reassure your family that you’re taking every precaution. Thomas stressed the importance of putting safety first and always making the right choices behind the wheel.
Bring Your Family Along
One unique way to involve your family in your career is to invite them to join you on the road. Having your spouse or kids experience firsthand how you operate the truck safely can put their minds at ease. It’s an opportunity for them to see the precautions you take and the professionalism you exhibit while on the job.
Additionally, when you encounter adverse weather conditions or other safety concerns, be sure to communicate with your family promptly. Letting them know that you’re okay and providing updates can prevent unnecessary worry and anxiety.
Stress Relief and Self-Care
As a truck driver, you’ll undoubtedly face stressful situations on the road. Thomas recommended finding healthy ways to manage stress. For him, walking was a simple yet effective stress relief technique. It’s essential to prioritize self-care to maintain your mental and emotional well-being, which, in turn, can positively impact your relationships with your family.
Being a truck driver can be challenging, especially when it comes to balancing work and family life. However, by prioritizing communication, establishing a support system, focusing on safety, involving your family in your journey and practicing stress relief, you can successfully support your children, spouse and family while working on the road. Remember, communication is the key to building and maintaining strong relationships, even when miles apart.
