It’s a common practice to ring in the New Year with a fresh outlook on life; resolutions, goals, a fresh start and renewed vigor for life. For Prime driver Buddy Gray, his 2024 New Year’s resolution is to complete renovations on his 110 year old house so he can enjoy it when he comes home. He says it all takes time and patience, like many things in life, but it will be worth it to provide a comfortable home for his wife and family.

Family-Centered Resolutions

As a father of three and grandfather of seven, most (if not all) of Buddy’s goals revolve around his family. He says he would like to retire one day to spend more time with his family, and he makes every effort he can to see his grandkids who are spread out across the country. Spending time with family is Buddy’s number one resolution for 2024.

“It’s a blessing to spend time with family,” Buddy said. “I like to take my grandkids fishing, shopping, and see all the crazy things they do. Spending time with them is the most important thing.”

When setting New Year’s resolutions, it’s important to align your goals with both your professional responsibilities as a truck driver and your personal responsibilities as a dad. Buddy is grateful for Prime’s flexibility with drivers, such as being able to choose your route, in order to spend more time with family. Buddy expressed, “Thank you to [founder] Robert Low for allowing us [drivers] to do the things we do in order to see our family.”

Involving Family in Your Resolutions

It’s one thing to set New Year’s resolutions, but it’s another thing to keep them. In fact, it’s common knowledge that most people do not keep their resolutions. Having someone to keep you accountable can go a long way in helping you reach your goals.

Buddy shares his goals with his wife and kids, who help to motivate him. He says it’s “a blast” to keep up with his family, despite their busy schedules. It is a lot easier to reach goals when they are shared with your family than when you try to go it alone, he said.

Buddy’s Advice for Fathers over the Road

Buddy shares the following advice for fellow over-the-road fathers:

• “Enjoy spending time with your kids when you get time off,” Buddy suggests. “When you get older it gets harder and before you know it, you’ve got grandkids. Take every chance you get to go home and spend time with family.”

• “Communication is so important,” Buddy emphasizes. “Even five minutes on the phone is a blessing. Every minute you get, take advantage of it. Driving a truck is a totally different lifestyle so when you get a chance to talk to family, take the time to do it. If not, you end up missing something. Call your kids, your spouse, and grandkids.”

The New Year has already started, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to set resolutions. Consider involving your family in your goals as Buddy does. Not only are you more likely to meet your goals, but it also provides an opportunity to bond with your family. Adhere to Buddy’s advice and spend as much time as you can with your family, because as a father they are the most important thing!