| |
|
|
|
|
|
What’s Your SOP?
2009-03-31 11:17:00
In the military, SOP stands for “standard operating procedure.” That means there is a procedure for how the military will get things done that has been written up and approved. Instead of creating your own way of getting things done, everyone is expected to follow SOP. In fact, there will be consequences if you don’t follow these standards. I’m sure trucking companies function in a similar fashion. In order to work there, you are expected to abide by the SOP set forth for each and every member of that company (they’re not just for drivers). Maybe you’ve seen the effect of a company not having an SOP? There was probably a great deal of chaos and stress, right? Like the military and trucking companies, setting an SOP or a standard for your life will help you avoid chaos and negative consequences. The trick is to set good standards. These standards will be what you base your significance on. Do you know how to set good standards? Where can you find them? Comment here.
For more information on significance check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: blog
,archive,significance
|
What Might Have Been
2009-03-30 13:39:00
Most of the time, when we grieve, we grieve over something that’s happened in our lives. But there are also times when we grieve over something that hasn’t happened or “what might have been.” Unrealized expectations and dashed hopes can paralyze us with sadness. We mourn for what we could have had, could have done or could have experienced. We live in a fog as we struggle with our unmet goals and dreams. Are you wrestling with accepting something in your life? Mourning a shattered dream? Instead of focusing on what might have been, try focusing on what is and what could still be. Revising your dreams isn’t bad. It’s realistic. And the sooner you do, the sooner the weight of grief will let go. The fog will lift. Hope will return. Comment here.
For more information on grief check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: grief,archive,blog
|
Do You Practice Patience?
2009-03-27 08:38:00
When it comes to anger, there are generally two types of people: patient or quick tempered. Which one are you? Having a quick temper or a short fuse can actually make you appear reckless, foolish and sometimes silly. Not to mention the mistakes you make because of having “lost it”. However, those who slow down and take the time to think through the situation and then act rationally, find that the outcome will often be with better understanding and less consequences. Out on the highway, there are plenty of opportunities to either get angry or practice patience (traffic, 4 wheelers cutting you off, lack of sleep, etc). Next time your anger threatens to boil over, slow down, take a deep breath, be patient and think things through. It will help you in the long run. Comment here.
For more information on anger check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: anger,archive,blog
|
What Does Loving Your Spouse Mean?
2009-03-26 08:17:00
When we got married, we promised to love our spouses til death do us part. How’s that going? There’s a whole lot more to this love thing than anyone could have ever explained before our wedding day when we made that promise. Some of us learn about love by going through the school of hard knocks. Love is defined in many ways. However, may I give you a couple of words that will help: humbleness, gentleness, and patience. When you face the difficult times in your marriage show your love to your spouse by applying these words to your actions. It will make the hard times not so hard and help you keep your promise. Comment here.
For more information on marriage check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: marriage,archive,blog
|
Lean on Me
2009-03-25 09:33:00
Most of us in the trucking industry spend an incredible amount of time by ourselves. As a result, we experience a lot of life alone. And naturally that large amount of aloneness has made us fairly self-sufficient. We’ve learned to do most things on our own. We’ve learned to cope with pretty much everything by ourselves. However, when it comes to grief our solitary lifestyle is faced with a dilemma. Grief can’t be successfully overcome on our own. We need the help of others to get through our season of sadness. Two are stronger than one. When one is down, the other can pick him/her up. Is there someone in your life who you can lean on when you’re sad? Who’s picking you up? Comment here.
For more information on grief check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: grief,archive,blog
|
Do You Know How Important You Are?
2009-03-24 10:37:00
Do you ask yourself, “Is there a place for me?” Look at the people you come in contact with every day of your life. Look at your family members. What would their lives look like if you were not there? There are an awful lot of kids growing up without a dad or mom. There are an awful lot of spouses left alone. You make a difference by just being a part of someone else’s life. Has your involvement helped or hurt those closest to you? Maybe the answer to that question might not be what you want it to be, but there is time to change. You can start making a difference in someone’s life today by knowing and realizing you are important to someone, and have a place waiting for you. Comment here.
For more information on significance check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: significance,archive,blog
|
Manage Your Family’s Needs and Reduce Your Stress
2009-03-23 08:56:00
We live in a real pressure cooker today. Life’s demands are overwhelming and almost impossible to keep up with. As drivers, we have even more stress added to our daily routine than most other careers. Your family needs you even though you are far from home. However, trying to meet those needs long distance is challenging which multiplies your stress level. Can you meet their needs while on the road? Are you meeting their needs at all? There are ways to manage our family’s needs, but we have to make sure that we know the difference between needs and wants. As well as knowing who should be allowed to set them in the first place. Make a list. You can prioritize or divide the list to make sure the needs are taken care of first. Then set a goal to reach the wants later. Don’t confuse the two. Another way to relieve stress when managing the needs of your family is to always look at your glass as half full, not half empty. Comment here.
For more information on stress check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Want to help? You can help us get the word out about www.driverswellness.com by forwarding a link of this blog to your trucker friends and family.
Tags: stress,family,archive,blog
|
Tough Enough to Cry
2009-03-20 08:38:00
Many of us in the trucking industry pride ourselves on being tough. We’re seasoned, street-smart and strong. We can handle anything. So when we’re hurting, what do we do? Suck it up and hit the road, right? Never let anyone see us sweat. And definitely never let anyone see you cry. Cry? Are you kidding? We don’t cry. And even if we do, we wouldn’t admit it anyway. Listen, you and I don’t have time to argue. The fact is sometimes we do cry. And if we never cry at all, then maybe there is something wrong. Maybe we’re denying or burying our emotions because we’re afraid we won’t know how to handle the pain. Be strong enough to admit when you’re hurting. Sometimes that starts with tears. When our heart is broken, it usually leaks out our eyes. Comment here.
For more information on grief check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: grief,archive,blog
|
The Most Important Quality in Marriage
2009-03-19 11:33:00
What qualities do you bring to your marriage? What qualities drew you to your spouse? Each of us has good qualities that help make our marriages what they are today. These positive life skills or personality traits range from being a financial provider, managing household needs, being a good communicator, money management skills, to the ability to be funny when faced with difficulties. Sometimes these qualities get forgotten about, ignored or set on the back burner. There is one quality that will not go unseen provided it is shown properly and regularly – LOVE. You could do everything else perfectly, but if you don’t show or tell your spouse regularly that you love them, all the other good qualities you posses won’t do any good. Don’t forget to show or tell your spouse that you love them today. Comment here.
For more information on marriage check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: marriage,archive,blog
|
Significance at Work
2009-03-18 10:18:00
Does what you’re doing really matter? To whom does it matter? Each one of us asks ourselves these questions about our life from time to time. As drivers, it often seems like we’re viewed as just a number. Our company could fill the truck we drive with another driver and life would go on. Almost as if we don’t really matter. Drivers tell me quite often that they wonder why they are out here on the road. They feel like they’re not really accomplishing anything. Truth is you do matter. It takes a team to get the job done. Each of us has different gifts and talents that apply to the team. Each of us plays a particular role in accomplishing the goal. Know your part, and do it well. Comment here.
For more information on significance check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: significance,archive,blog
|
Has Stress Taken You Down the Wrong Road?
2009-03-17 09:08:00
We have all seen the signs on some roads that don’t allow trucks down them, or a parking lot that says “no trucks allowed.” I remember specifically in Chicago a street I was on that had low bridges on it and trucks were not supposed to be on this road (this was when Rand McNally was the only resource). I knew very quickly I was not on the right road. It is very frustrating to a driver not to have the proper directions to his or her destination. Our lives are the same way. The stress of life can get us off the right path and lead us down to a place we don’t want to be. What do you use as your road map for life? What guides you and your family through the stressful times? How can we help? Comment here.
For more information on stress check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: stress,archive,blog
|
What is Comfort?
2009-03-16 09:38:00
It’s one of those things we struggle to describe, but we certainly know it when we feel it. Comfort is a strengthening of our heart in a time of pain. It’s receiving encouragement in the face of deep discouragement. Basically, it’s feeling better when we’ve been feeling awfully sad. Where does comfort come from? There are several potential sources: a loved one, a friend, a word, a song – even a stranger can comfort us. For many, comfort comes from their faith in God. But wherever it comes from, it repairs our shattered heart and fills us with hope again. Comfort can lift our spirits and help us get up and go on. Are you in need of comfort right now? Find encouragement from something or someone today. Remember, we’re here for you. Comment here.
For more information check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: blog,archive,comfort
|
Surviving With Lifelines
2009-03-13 09:30:00
During a crisis, people feel particularly vulnerable. Crisis has a rather graphic way of stripping us of our false sense of security and ease. Our way of life or our safe little routine can be violently turned on its ear in a single moment. Ever have that happen? Is it happening now? Everything you knew to be reliable and secure is gone in an instant: your marriage, your health, your home, your job, your retirement income, etc. Do you feel vulnerable? Are you heartbroken? Are you being forced to rely on others to survive because without them you would never make it? Do you have a lifeline? Is it a stable one? Comment here.
For more information on crisis check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: blog,archive,crisis
|
I’ve Got A Peaceful, Easy Feelin’
2009-03-12 08:33:00
The opposite of conflict is peace. But peace isn’t merely the absence of conflict. Rather, it’s having harmony and goodwill in all of our relationships. Just because you’re not fighting with someone doesn’t mean you’re really at peace with them. And just because you’re not out to get revenge against the one who’s hurt you doesn’t mean there’s real harmony in your relationship either. Real peace comes from doing positive things toward them. It’s a result of taking the high road when they’ve injured you. And on that road, we “go the extra mile.” That brings peace. Comment here.
For more information on conflict check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: conflict,archive,blog
|
Stages of Grief
2009-03-11 08:43:00
Grief experts tell us that there are typically 5 stages of grief. In other words, there are 5 steps that a person goes through in the process of dealing with and expressing his/her grief:
Denial – shock, numbness
Bargaining – guilt, how it could have been avoided
Depression – mourning, loneliness or isolation
Anger – helplessness, resentment or abandonment
Acceptance – point at which the loss becomes a part of your life experience
Not everyone who grieves experiences every step or goes through the steps in order. But generally speaking, most people experience at least a few of them. Are you currently grieving over something? What stage are you in? Can you identify it? How are you doing to get help? Comment here.
For more information check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: grief,archive,blog
|
Make The Call
2009-03-10 09:57:00
Reaching your family while out on the road has certainly gotten easier hasn’t it? Years ago, drivers would have to make a stop, hope to find a payphone and call his family only to learn that they were not at home. It was very hard to communicate and it was very frustrating. Now, we have cell phones, email, instant messaging, texting and many other very convenient ways to communicate. But is that what communication is all about? Is it just being able to reach someone? What do you say when you talk to your wife or kids? Is it all about your or all about them? Do you spend time listening and sharing? The way you communicate is much more important than just being able to reach them. However and how often you talk to your family, be sure to use words that are encouraging. I know it’s hard for you being out on the road. But don’t forget, it’s also hard for them at home. Don’t make it more difficult by using words that tear them down. Start building up your family with encouraging words today. Comment here.
For more information on families check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: blog,archive,families
|
Can’t Buy Me Love
2009-03-09 08:29:00
When it comes to finances, I’m sure you’re familiar with two old sayings: “Money can’t buy happiness,” and “Money is the root of all evil.” The first one is true; however the second one is not. It’s actually a misquotation. The original saying is: “The LOVE of money is the root of all types of evil.” Money’s not the problem. It’s not evil. It’s the love of money that sometimes leads us to do wrong things. Sure, money can buy a lot of stuff, but it’s incapable of producing or securing real inner peace and joy. That’s why you can’t be consumed with money; either making, spending or saving it. Real happiness needs to be found elsewhere. Comment here.
For more information on finance check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: blog,archive,finance
|
Being Committed Will Help You Make The Long Haul
2009-03-06 10:14:00
We have all heard or used certain phrases or words to describe our marriage. Let me give you one that I think sums up the kind that make it for the long haul. That word is committed. Don’t get me wrong, there will be times of difficulties, stress, loneliness and doubts during the course of our marriage. These rough roads could very easily put us on a detour from our original course of “till death do us part”. Don’t let that happen, stay committed to your spouse and to the promise you made. Other words that will make commitment easier are words like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Keep these words close to your heart so that you may keep your commitment to your spouse. Comment here.
For more information on marriage check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: marriage,archive,blog
|
How Do You Handle Loneliness?
2009-03-05 09:05:00
Loneliness is very common in the trucking industry. One way drivers avoid loneliness is by trying to fill the void with stuff. Some drivers work all the time burying themselves in their job. Some drivers fill the void with gambling, drugs or alcohol which leads to other problems. There are lot lizards out there who promise to eliminate your loneliness (for a few dollars) at least for a little while. None of these things will ever fix the real problem of being lonely. Only solid quality relationships can fill the void. I encourage you to start a new friendship today. There is someone willing to help you properly fill the void. Comment here.
For more information on loneliness check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: blog,archive,loneliness
|
Anger and Kids Don’t Mix
2009-03-04 07:57:00
Are you a parent? We’ve talked in the past about how difficult it is to maintain relationships while out on the road. Even though we spend a lot of time away from home, this does not exempt us from our duties and responsibilities of parenting. Drivers face additional stresses of parenting, but there are ways to head our families in the right direction without blowing our stacks. Remember that we are not to push our children to anger. We are supposed to teach and train them how to grow up and be responsible adults. Getting angry doesn’t do this process any good at all. Comment here.
For more information on anger or families check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: anger,parenting,family,archive,blog
|
Clark Kent and Superman
2009-03-03 09:24:00
Most of us would like to think we’d be heroic if the need ever arose. In general, we may have our wits about us. We may have a lot of common sense. We may even be courageous by nature. But all that separates a hero from a regular guy is simply the lack of opportunity. And since we can’t control opportunity, we have to be hero-like every day just in case. The fact is most of the time Superman was just regular old Clark Kent. Clark was always ready and able even though he was unassuming. So keep your eyes open. Look for those times when a hero might be needed. When that happens, step up and be one. Comment here.
For more information on crisis check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Tags: crisis,archive,blog
|
The Power of Words
2009-03-02 11:54:00
It the midst of a conflict, we need to be very careful of what we say. Because our words can either be inflammatory or conciliatory. They can be wounding or healing. Impulsive words said without thinking can injure beyond our intention and damage beyond our control. And once they're spoken, they can never be taken back. Once they leave our mouths, they can never be retrieved. Therefore, in a conflict, control what you say. Do whatever you have to in order to keep from saying something you'll be sorry for later. Suggestions? Always say the second thing that comes to your mind. Count to ten before you speak. If you can't say anything nice... Comment here.
For more information on conflict check out the issues section on our resources page or contact us. You can also call our toll-free Trucker Prayer Line at 1-877-797-PRAY (7729). We’re here for you.
Send an e-mail to join-driverwellness@pr4.netatlantic.com to subscribe to this blog for free. These messages are brought to you by Drivers Wellness, an initiative of Transport For Christ. If you would like to give a donation to help us reach drivers, click here.
Tags: blog,archive,conflict
|
|
|
|
|
|
