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Life on the road can be stressful. Getting safely from one destination to another requires concentration and patience, but even the best truck drivers can sometimes feel overwhelmed after a long haul. Fortunately, there are a few tips that can help you unwind before you climb back behind the wheel.

How to Deal With Stress While Driving

1. Keep a Lid on Your Road Rage

Frustration with other drivers can erupt as road rage. By concentrating fully on your driving—without making eye contact with other drivers—you can stay in control of your temper. Listen to calming music; if your anger starts to get the best of you, practice stress breathing—repeatedly inhaling deep breaths, holding to a count of four, and releasing slowly. 

2. Plan Your Trip Carefully

The best truck drivers have learned that planning is essential to avoid unexpected problems on the road. Plan your routes; check traffic, weather, and construction reports; and schedule regular food breaks. If you need to stay somewhere overnight, make sure there’s a suitable location to park your rig, or book a reservation for a motel room ahead of time.

3. Get Some Exercise Along the Way

truck driverTruck drivers sit for extended periods, so whenever you have the chance to stretch your legs and walk around, consider taking a jog or hitting a nearby gym instead. Physical activity fights anxiety, keeps you calm, and releases endorphins—mood-enhancing hormones that promote happiness. Many rest stops even have showers, so you can wash yourself off after exercising. 

4. Talk to Someone

Driving long distances without friends and family can be hard on truck drivers. It’s essential to stay in contact with your loved ones during the trip. Make time to call home to speak or video chat with someone you care about. Doing so can improve your mood and keep you motivated.

 

One way to prepare for stress on the road is by being trained by the best. The teachers at Great Lakes Truck Driving School in Columbia Station, OH, have more than 500 years of collective experience as truck drivers and support staff. They can help prepare you for truck driving and heavy equipment use. Visit their website or call (440) 236-3436 to learn more about their driving classes today.

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