Trucking can mean long hours on the road away from family. It can be hard to balance with work, however, you are not alone. Many Truckers have had this same struggle, but many have also figured out how to work around it.
1. Make time to talk on the phone. Deliberately make time to call as often as you can. It can seem like a small thing, but it allows your family to hear your voice and feel more connected. It doesn't even have to be long, but it is enough to let your family know that you are still there for them.
2. Send physical mail. Sometimes, the simplest things are the best things. A letter in the mail gets everyone excited. You can write your own note or send something with it. It really is a small thing but that letter can be treasured forever. There are also several companies that specialize in sending small but meaningful or funny gifts with mail. You can also collect postcards from each of your stops and send them home alone the way.
3. Listen to the same podcast or audiobook. Find a podcast that interests both of you. When you finish an episode talk to each other about it. There are several narrative podcasts that you can follow from week to week and talk about it as the story develops. You can also do this with audiobooks. Start a little book club for you and your significant other.
4. Write little notes before you leave. You can make a jar for your significant other that they can open when they're feeling lonely or you can write a note for everyday you will be gone. Your significant other can do the same for you as well. It's a small gesture, but it is very sentimental. There is also no reason to over complicate it either. YOu can just write something simple or you can write a whole page. It really is up to you.
Remember you are not alone in this. Call a friend or reach out to your family if you feel down. Make sure to keep up with your family. Many truckers are in successful relationships. You can be one of them. It just may be a little different than what you're used to. What other ideas do you have to stay connected? Share them in the comments below!