As the new year approaches, we turn our attention to the future. New Year’s resolutions are a classic example of this mindset, allowing people to consider how they’d like to improve and commit themselves to the idea.  

As a truck driver, you know that life on the road can be difficult at times. If you want to make sure your time in the seat is as good as it can be, here are some New Year’s resolutions that can help.   

Get Good Sleep  

Being well-rested is critical for truck drivers, and not just for their overall health. When you’re tired, maintaining focus becomes difficult, making it harder to remain safe while on the road. You may also become frustrated more quickly, leading to higher incidents of road rage.  

Generally speaking, adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. Additionally, it’s wise to stick with a fairly rigid sleep schedule, heading to bed and waking up at about the same time every day, including days off. This ensures you don’t just get enough rest but that you can develop a reliable rhythm. Once that rhythm is in place, you’ll usually have an easier time falling asleep and waking up each day.  

Eat Healthy  

Accessing healthy foods on the road can be a little challenging. Many truck stops and fast food restaurants have limited healthy options, leaving many drivers feeling stuck with unhealthy choices.  

While you can certainly focus on the healthiest options when you hit a truck stop or restaurant, it’s also wise to plan ahead for your needs. If you can head to a grocery store before or during your trip, you can purchase what you’ll need for lunches and snacks there instead.  

Fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as nuts and seeds, can be great choices. Some brands of protein bars are also pretty healthy. Just make sure to focus on options that are lower in sugar.  

Finding replacements for soda is also wise. While water is the ideal choice, unsweetened ice tea is a decent alternative, as well. Unsweetened tea can give you a caffeine boost, keep you hydrated, and give you a touch of flavor without real or artificial sweeteners.  

Commit to Cleanliness  

If COVID-19 has taught the world anything, it’s the importance of regular cleanings. Make cleanliness a priority this year, ensuring that your cab is tidy and gets a solid wipe down regularly. Not only can this help you stay healthy, but it may also brighten your mood. Good organization and a lack of clutter can make your cab feel larger and calmer, both of which can boost your mindset.  

Plus, if an inspector spots a messy cab, there’s a good chance they’re going to spend more time examining your vehicle. As a result, cleanliness can speed up your travels, ensuring inspections run smoothly.  

Is Your Resolution a Better Trucking Job in 2021? 

Ultimately, all three of the New Year’s resolutions above are great choices for truck drivers. If you’d like to discover great opportunities in Sacramento and beyond, the team at PTS® can help.