We’re over halfway through the year, and summer is in full swing! We hope you’re beating the heat this season. As we keep on trucking through the year, it’s important we know what keeps our tanks full, that is, what motivates us and keeps us going.

How do you stay motivated while over-the-road? How can you keep your family motivated? How does your role as an over-the-road father keep you motivated?

Mongrick Shepherd, father of five and Prime driver of seven years, loves being a father, especially the opportunity to watch his children grow and be involved in their interests. His new children’s book, “When Dad is Home: A Heartwarming Children’s Story About Family, Love, and a Truck Driver Dad Coming Home,” showcases his love for his children. Keep scrolling to see how his family and more keep him motivated!

Focus on your children while on the job

Being an over-the-road dad is a rewarding role, but many experience loneliness and lose motivation as a result. Mongrick suggests prioritizing and focusing on the ones who matter in our lives.

“My kids (are) the reason why I’m on the road,” he said. “(I) make sure I provide for them a lifestyle I never had.”

Knowing he’s allowing his children to thrive by providing for them has allowed Mongrick to stay motivated. He admitted it’s hard to be away from his children, especially when the time approaches to get back on the road.

Through his role as a father, he acts as a guide, giving his children space to learn and express themselves. He sees himself in his children; he remembers what it was like when he was a kid, which keeps him motivated.

“They’re their own character,” he said. “I’m there for them to have a better life, to show them structure and patience.”

Motivate your children by being a good role model

Many Prime fathers have discussed how important it is to set a good example for your kids. Mongrick says that by leading by example and holding himself accountable, he’s able to motivate his children to be better human beings.

“Lead by example and practice what you preach,” he said. “Being a truck driver is what I do, but being a father and husband is who I am. Not only just talking about it, but showing it.”

You’re less likely to motivate others if your own words don’t match your actions! Take pride in your role as an over-the-road dad, and think of traits that allow you to be a motivational figure for the loved ones in your life.

“Showing up and leading by example goes a long way,” he said.

Keep communication with your family ongoing

Communication is one of the biggest factors that allow families to stay motivated. Talking to his wife Erica and frequent check-ins with his children are ways Mongrick makes sure his family knows he loves and cares about them.

“Even though I’m not there all the time, I always make sure my presence is felt at home,” he said.

Mongrick discusses in his book the different interests of his children, such as basketball, dance and karate. He’s even found a creative way to bond with his children while over-the-road, through the online game Roblox.

Roblox is an online gaming platform where players can create characters and experience games created by other players. Mongrick found out it was something his children enjoyed, and his children liked it when he watched them play, so he decided to create an account of his own.

“Every time I see them (online), I join their game and play with them,” he said.

The platform also allows for voice chat, so he’s able to talk to his children while they play.

“It’s entertaining,” he said. “I’m not home, but I’m still there.”

Be intentional while communicating with your children! To do this, Mongrick sets aside a portion of time to talk with his kids about their interests. Whether it’s an energetic debate about dinosaurs with his son or jamming to the music his daughter likes, Mongrick makes sure he’s an involved parent to motivate his kids.

Don’t be afraid to share your story

“It’s hard being a truck driver,” Mongrick admitted. “It doesn’t get talked about a lot.”

Being an over-the-road driver is tough, but not impossible. Mongrick credits his wife and children as a huge part of his support system. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, even when you’re feeling unmotivated.

One of the reasons he wrote “When Dad is Home” is to provide perspectives and motivation for other over-the-road families. It allowed him to reflect on the good times he’s had with his children and remember that even though over-the-road dads are away, they still show up as parents and provide love, support and motivation for their families.

“Even though we’re out here on the road, we have responsibility,” he said. “We still have to show up for our kids and make sure they’re loved and cared for.

“I’ll show up no matter what, it doesn’t matter how many miles,” he continued. “I’m their father, and I’m always there for them no matter what.”

Final Words

Mongrick views his story as “something that needed to be shared.” He reminds over-the-road fathers that even if you’re feeling unmotivated, focus on what matters to you. Even if you’re miles and miles away from home, it doesn’t mean you stop being a good, present dad.

“Don’t wait to become a better father, start now,” he said. “Keep growing, (your children don’t need perfection, they need effort.

“I love (my kids),” he continued. “They’re my world, my purpose and the reason I’m out here every day. They look to me for guidance, and I try my best to show up for them as my best self by being consistent, patient, and present.”