In our last installment, we covered some issues that CDL training students should think about before they enter training or the truck driving industry. We continue here.
4. Refusing To Break Bad Habits
Many CDL trainees enter the school because they had a relative show them the ropes based on what they learned in the past. While this may be a great way to get a generalized feel for a semi truck, it’s not going to make you an actual truck driver who can just sail through training without paying attention. It’s of utmost importance that students pay attention to their CDL trainers during all phases of training. You may think you know more than your teacher, but they are ultimately the ones who give you your passing grades. So if your trainer tells you that you’re doing something incorrectly, break your habit, revise your behavior and start fresh.
Ask any veteran truck driver if they know everything about driving and the trucking business. Anyone who’s telling the truth will say “No.” You can be trained for the basics, but you will be learning the fine points of the industry for a lifetime.
5. Don’t Give Up
Truck drivers have to be self-reliant. Often times they’re the only ones looking out themselves. On the road they have to be smart, vigilant and crafty to keep things rolling smooth. You have to be the same way when training for your CDL. Don’t get us wrong – you should do all you can to make friends and build a network of professionals that can help you with certain things later. Just don’t expect help whenever you need it. While in training, don’t let things you find difficult frustrate you to the point of quitting. Truck driving is a profession, but it’s most definitely a skill. Skill requires practice and adjustments. Be ready to endure a lot of it while learning to drive. Every trucker will have a story of mistakes and how they overcame setbacks. Just make sure you’re ready to learn from these mistakes once you begin.
So – do you still think truck driving is for you? If you’re smart, have common sense, a positive attitude and a working class spirit, we think it just might be. Good luck during your training, and we hope to hear from you at CDLLife and seeing you on the road. Good luck!