Surviving The Test Of Time – Your First Year As A Truck Driver!

Starting a career is an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for everyone. Undeniably, this time of our lives remains a golden memory in our minds forever. The mixture of emotions in the initial stages of your career and the accompanying frustration can be overwhelming at times. But that doesn’t mean it is something to be frightful of.

The initial steps may appear complicated at the time, but after a few years, when you look back on this period and how you conquered the obstacles, your chest will swell with pride.

As Surrey’s most reliable truck driving school, we always tell our aspiring truck drivers the golden rule of success in the trucking industry, which we would also like to share with you.

“Self-belief and hard work are the only shortcuts to success as a truck driver.”

If you stick with this rule in the first year of your truck driving career, success will be your destiny. But the question is, how do you survive the first year? Well, your landing on this blog implies that you have either attained your CDL (and are about to commence your career) or you are contemplating a career in the trucking industry. Regardless of your intention, this blog will provide some relevant information to ease up your thoughts.

Read on to explore some valuable survival trips to help you pass the test of time in your first year.

Surviving The First Year

First and foremost, it is crucial that you are mentally ready to accept the fact that a career in this industry is nothing like the typical 9 to 5 job. From your sleeping habits and schedule to leisure hours, there is a lot that you will have to change. Truck driving is no joke and is thus not a thing for the faint-hearted. It is quite challenging, especially in the first year, and requires a lot of devotion.

However, these challenges handsomely return the favour in terms of a highly lucrative salary and adventurous tours in the highlands, along the shores, and through skyscraper-packed cities.

Get Off To A Good Start

A strong start serves as the initial stepping stone on the path to success. If this stone isn’t strong enough, the entire staircase will sway during your trek. As a result, you must be certain that the initial step you take is appropriate. In this regard, choosing a reliable trucking school for the necessary training should be your priority if you haven’t obtained a CDL yet. Big Rig Driving School is a government-approved provider of MELT and other training packages as well.

We seek to act as a bridge between aspiring drivers and their career goals. During our training sessions, we equip our students with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in the first year of their careers. Thus, enrolling in one of our programs will be a great start.

Prepare Yourself

Mental preparation is the key to surviving the first year. Trucking is not a piece of cake and success will not be served to you on a plate. Hence, you must mentally prepare yourself for the upcoming challenges and hurdles and have realistic expectations. It won’t be easy, but it is not impossible either.

What is important is to have the right mindset about the matter.

Communicate Openly

If you don’t voice your opinions or concerns, you will not be able to get help as and when needed. To succeed in your first year, it is important that you are on good talking terms with the dispatching team and your fellow drivers. As a result of the latter, you will be able to negotiate comfortable working hours to some extent and get the necessary guidance you need from other drivers.

However, when negotiating working hours, ensure that you keep your words to avoid discrepancies. The latter is not a place to land in your first year.

Take One Step At A Time

Don’t go overboard and tire yourself. The first year is more like an on-the-job learning opportunity. Thus, do not continuously opt to take longer routes just to impress the employer. Set realistic goals so that you can accomplish them with the least trouble.

Follow The Rules

A tainted reputation as an irresponsible driver is something you must avoid at all costs in your first year. Handling a large vehicle is not like hitting the road with your Audi. Therefore, do not even think of breaking any road rule. It might bring an end to your career before it even starts.

Do Not Let Mistakes Deter You

Committing errors is part of our nature. As long as you didn’t do anything out of recklessness, there is always a chance to learn from your mistakes. At this point, it is important to remember that mistakes or challenges should not deter or discourage you. Just show your willingness to learn from a bad experience and focus on improving.

About Big Rig Driving School

Our aim is to help every aspirant excel in the trucking field. Stand a chance to start a prosperous career as a truck driver under the shadow of our seasoned instructors and driving professionals. Learn more about Big Rig Driving School and where we can get you in your career. Contact us to enrol in one of our exquisite courses.