I don't think people understand how much one can learn by asking questions, being observative, and most importantly paying attention!
Knowing "how to learn" applies to learning anything in life. It starts with being humble, accepting the fact that you know nothing, and being open to someone teaching you. If you're training in a group or you're around others with experience you can learn a ton just by observing others. I hear people complain all the time that they don't get enough time in the trucks practicing at school. They're missing out on one of the most valuable learning tools - observation. It's highly effective to be able to take a step back, relax, and watch someone else try something. You will learn a lot about what works, what doesn't, and why.
I'm new to alpine climbing and I ask tons and tons of questions all the time. I recently took a trip where I climbed with a new climbing guide. One of the first things I told him is that I want to learn all I can and I'm going to ask a lot of questions. I told him please do not ever think that I'm questioning his methods or his judgments as if I think he's doing something wrong. I'm simply looking for deeper insights into why something is being done a certain way.
People who love to teach always love an enthusiastic student who is eager to learn. You don't want to waste your time on a know-it-all who isn't going to learn anything. You want someone who is ready to soak up everything you have to teach like a sponge. That's the type of student I am when I'm learning anything.
Always ask a ton of questions when you're learning something.
Who says you can't make money doing regional runs?
Not me! I've always said that a regional driver can make nearly as much money as an OTR driver, and sometimes every bit as much. I think regional is the perfect mix of the travelling lifestyle during the week with time at home on the weekends and a great paycheck. You have to prove that you're a reliable driver so that dispatch will keep you pre-planned on loads and you have to manage your clock very efficiently. If you can manage that you can make fantastic money in a regional division.
Thanks for the input Brett!
Regional:
Regional Route
Usually refers to a driver hauling freight within one particular region of the country. You might be in the "Southeast Regional Division" or "Midwest Regional". Regional route drivers often get home on the weekends which is one of the main appeals for this type of route.
OTR:
Over The Road
OTR driving normally means you'll be hauling freight to various customers throughout your company's hauling region. It often entails being gone from home for two to three weeks at a time.
Thanks for the input Brett!
Regional:
Regional Route
Usually refers to a driver hauling freight within one particular region of the country. You might be in the "Southeast Regional Division" or "Midwest Regional". Regional route drivers often get home on the weekends which is one of the main appeals for this type of route.
OTR:
Over The Road
OTR driving normally means you'll be hauling freight to various customers throughout your company's hauling region. It often entails being gone from home for two to three weeks at a time.
OWI:
Operating While Intoxicated