If there’s one thing I’ve learned about those working in the fleet industry, it’s that your life is busy. I regularly talk to fleet managers working 10-plus-hour days due to budget cuts, fleet employees dealing with skeleton crews, and administrators pushing for changes on top of the daily fleet demands.
It’s easy to imagine how it can feel like you’re being pulled in multiple directions with limited mobility. Add travel to conferences, public outreach, and my own requests for interviews (and I’m always grateful for those who never hesitate to help), and it’s no wonder the workload feels overwhelming.
It’s a lot.
Incorporating Wellness Into The Everyday Work Life
That brings me to my next point: August being National Wellness Month. Yes, I’m writing this at the tail end of the month, but the principles it encourages should be applied year-round. I remember when I attended a FLAGFA conference when I was first getting to know the fleet industry.
One speaker led a session that left everyone feeling a bit more relaxed. At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate how important it is to take breaks during the hectic pace of fleet work.
Now, I have a better understanding of the stresses that come with this job. I also know that many of you would take on extra work and put in extra hours just to solve the challenges you're facing. It’s commendable, but I want to encourage you to also make time for yourselves, however that looks.
It’s a simple reminder, but one I hope you take to heart. I know it’s not always easy to book the next flight to the Bahamas, but you can step away for a bit.
The Proof is in the Pudding: Time for a Break
A study conducted at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, examined students who had to monitor maps of railway lines on a screen, a task requiring sustained attention while tracking train routes. One group did the task for 45 minutes without any break.
The other group took a five-minute break halfway through and was randomly assigned to one of five activities: sitting quietly, listening to music, watching a music video, choosing between music or the video, or spending the break however they wished without leaving the room. The result? As you might guess, the group that took a break, no matter what they did, performed better on the test.
For any misgivings about stepping away, that should be proof enough. So whatever it is—turning on some music, going for a walk, going to the gym, or maybe even booking that trip to the Bahamas—don’t be afraid to make time and be good to yourself.
