Truckers Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions
Ah, New Year’s resolutions. We all start off strong, full of hope, ready to conquer the world – or at least eat fewer donuts at the truck stop. But let’s be real: by the time February rolls around, those resolutions are often sitting in the rearview mirror right next to that gas station burrito you swore you wouldn’t eat (but definitely did).
For long-haul truck drivers, sticking to resolutions can feel even trickier. When your office is a 70-foot rig and your schedule is tighter than a packed rest area, finding time for new habits can seem impossible. But here’s the thing – it’s not about overhauling your entire life all at once. The key is setting goals that actually fit your lifestyle (yes, that lifestyle that involves living out of a cab most days).
This article isn’t about turning you into some kind of wellness guru who wakes up at 4 AM to meditate before a 500-mile drive. Nope, we’re talking practical, realistic resolutions that make life on the road smoother, healthier, and maybe even a little more enjoyable. Whether it’s about eating better, moving more, or just finding ways to keep your sanity intact, these tips are tailored for life behind the wheel.
So, grab a coffee, get comfortable in that driver’s seat, and let’s break down some resolutions and tips that actually stand a chance of surviving the year.
Why Most New Year’s Resolutions Fail
Let’s start with the cold, hard truth – around 80% of New Year’s resolutions crash and burn by mid-February. Yep, the odds aren’t exactly in our favour.
Why does this happen? Well, for starters, we tend to set goals like “get healthy” or “save money,” which are about as specific as saying you’re driving “somewhere west.” Vague goals lead to vague results. Then there’s the lack of planning – it’s easy to say you’ll work out three times a week, but without a plan, that resolution is as lost as a GPS signal in the mountains. And let’s not forget unrealistic expectations. If you’re hoping to go from zero workouts to marathon-ready in a month, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.
For truckers, the road to resolution success has a few extra potholes. Long hours behind the wheel make it tough to squeeze in gym time. Finding healthy food at truck stops? That’s like spotting Bigfoot – rare and exciting, but not something you can count on. And isolation can sap motivation faster than a dead battery on a cold morning. When you’re driving solo for days, there’s no accountability partner to keep you honest.
But don’t worry – understanding why resolutions fail is half the battle. Now, let’s figure out how to make them stick.
Set Specific and Realistic Goals
The secret sauce to keeping resolutions? Get specific – like, GPS-coordinates-level specific. Saying “I want to get healthier” is nice, but it’s not exactly a game plan. Instead, try “I will walk 15 minutes during my breaks” or “I’ll swap one soda a day for water.” Small, clear goals are easier to track and less likely to overwhelm.
Another trick? Focus on one goal at a time. Trying to overhaul your entire life in January is like attempting to drive cross-country in a single day – exhausting and more than slightly illegal. Pick one resolution, stick to it, and once it feels like second nature, add another.
For truckers, realistic goals can be as simple as improving daily habits on the road. Maybe it’s doing more thorough pre-trip inspections, keeping your logbook spotless, or cutting down on idle time to save fuel. These little changes not only make your life easier but can have a ripple effect on your health, safety, and wallet.
Remember, the goal isn’t to become perfect overnight. It’s about setting achievable targets that move you in the right direction, one mile at a time.
The SMART Method for Goal Setting
Ever feel like your resolutions are floating around without a map? Enter the SMART method – the GPS for goal-setting. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This isn’t just corporate jargon; it’s a foolproof way to stay on track.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Specific – Nail down exactly what you want to achieve. Instead of “get in shape,” try “walk for 15 minutes during every rest stop.”
- Measurable – You need to track your progress. “I’ll reduce idle time by 20%.”
- Achievable – Be honest with yourself. Can you realistically achieve this with your schedule? If not, scale it back.
- Relevant – Make sure the goal actually matters to your life. If improving fuel efficiency saves you money, that’s a win. Just as dropping 10 lb will improve your health outcomes for years to come.
- Time-bound – Set a deadline. “I’ll hit this target within three months.” Keep in mind the “A” – Achievable!
For truckers, a great SMART goal might be: “I will reduce idle time by 20% within three months.” It’s clear, trackable, and realistic.
To keep things easy, consider downloading a SMART goal template or jotting it down in a notebook. Having a visual reminder can keep you focused, even when the road gets long.
Make a New Year’s Resolution Plan
A goal without a plan is just wishful thinking. It’s like starting a road trip without a map – you might eventually get somewhere, but it’ll take twice as long and involve a lot of wrong turns.
Start by outlining the exact steps you need to achieve your goal. Want to eat healthier? Research truck stops with better food options or stock up on healthy snacks before you hit the road. Trying to exercise more? Plan which rest stops have walking areas or bring resistance bands for quick workouts in the cab.
Expect setbacks – they’re part of the journey. Maybe you cave and grab that cheeseburger or skip a workout after a long day. That’s okay. The key is to plan for these moments so they don’t derail your entire resolution. Have a backup plan for meals or schedule quick, realistic workouts that fit even the busiest day.
Lastly, write down your plan. Seeing it in black and white makes it real and keeps you accountable. Whether it’s a note on your phone or a sticky note on your dashboard, that written plan can serve as a gentle reminder to keep going, even when motivation dips.
Small Steps Lead to Big Changes
Big resolutions are great, but it’s the small steps that really get you across the finish line. Incremental progress adds up – and before you know it, those tiny changes turn into major wins.
Instead of overhauling your entire routine, start small. Swap one soda for water, add 10 minutes of walking to your breaks, or take five minutes at the end of each shift to tidy up your cab. These little victories build momentum and make the bigger goals feel more manageable.
For truckers, this could mean conducting more thorough post-trip inspections or adding a short stretching routine during fuel stops. Light exercises like squats or shoulder rolls can easily fit into your schedule and make a world of difference over time.
Remember, progress doesn’t have to be flashy. It just has to be consistent. One small step at a time, and you’ll be miles ahead by the time next New Year’s rolls around.
The Importance of Support
Sticking to resolutions can feel like trying to fix a flat tire with duct tape if you’re doing it alone. Support is the game-changer.
Share your goals with family, friends, or even your dispatcher. Letting someone else know what you’re aiming for adds accountability and encouragement. Better yet, find an accountability partner – a fellow driver, a friend, or even someone from a trucking forum. Checking in regularly, even if it’s just a quick text, can keep you motivated.
Online communities are goldmines of support. Social media groups and forums dedicated to trucker health, fitness, or safety are packed with people who get the unique challenges of life on the road. Jump in, share your journey, and learn from others who’ve been there.
Remember, you’re not in this alone. With the right support, those resolutions start feeling a lot more achievable.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Mistakes happen – that’s just part of being human (and a driver). Maybe you skip that workout or grab a late-night snack you swore off. It’s not the end of the world. The key is not to let one misstep turn into a total breakdown.
Instead of focusing on the slip-up, think about how far you’ve come. Reflect on the progress you’ve made and get back on track the next day. Remember, resolutions aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress. Every small step forward counts, even if you stumble along the way.
Cut yourself some slack and keep pushing forward. The road to lasting change isn’t straight – it’s full of twists and turns. But as long as you keep moving, you’ll get there.
New Year’s Resolutions for Roadway Safety
Now to trucking stuff: safety isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a must. And if you think your resolutions should only focus on personal stuff like getting fit or eating healthier, think again. Roadway safety is a major part of your job that impacts not just you but everyone on the road. So, why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions to up your safety game?
Proper Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections
You’ve heard it a million times: pre-trip and post-trip inspections are your first line of defence in preventing accidents. So, make it a resolution to stop rushing through these checks. Take your time, ensure everything’s in working order, and don’t skip a single detail. The more thorough you are, the less likely you’ll face those annoying breakdowns or, worse, be caught off guard by something dangerous.
Avoiding Violations
Violations are unacceptable. Period. Whether it’s speeding, driving over hours, or not following safety protocols, they’re a headache you don’t need. Make it a resolution to review and stick to all driving regulations. Set specific goals like, “I will avoid violations this year.” If you’re proactive, you can keep those violations out of your rearview mirror for good.
Remember: improving safety isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about keeping yourself, your cargo, and everyone else on the road safe. And in the end, that benefits not just you, but also Len Dubois Trucking, your colleagues, and the general public. So, why not make safety your top priority this year? It’s one resolution that’s worth keeping.
Have a Wonderful 2025
Alright, drivers, New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be some grand, unrealistic challenge that gets tossed aside by February. They’re opportunities – opportunities to make small improvements that add up to big results. Whether it’s hitting your safety goals, improving your health, or tightening up your professional skills, every little step forward counts.
Don’t get hung up on perfection. If you slip up here and there, no worries. The key is to keep moving, keep improving, and never lose sight of the bigger picture. Small progress is still progress. If you can make one solid change this year, it’s a win.
We’re rooting for you this year. Len Dubois Trucking is always here to support you – whether it’s helping you stay safe on the road, offering tips to boost your career, or simply cheering you on when things get tough. Whatever your resolutions are, we’ve got your back every mile of the way.
Here’s to making 2025 your best year yet—safe, successful, and full of personal and professional growth. You’ve got this!
Resources and More Information
Need Motivation to Tackle your New Year’s Resolutions – Mayo Clinic
10 Great Tips for Keeping Your Resolutions This Year – VeryWell Mind
How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions and Make Them Stick – MyMoneyCoach
