“If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six hours sharpening my axe.”
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is often quoted for having said, “If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six sharpening my axe.” The hours vary (usually it’s given as either eight or six hours), but the meaning is that one should spend more time in preparation. The saying is similar to the proverbs, “measure twice, cut once” and “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
As I have a teaching background, I’d say before you do anything, learn as much as you can about it, get proper training, and be fully prepared. If we relate the same concept for trucking, the rules won’t change. If you want to enter into trucking and get your licence, get proper training from a reputable school. It may take longer and cost you more money, but you will save your time, money, and maybe even your own, and others, lives later. If you are assigned a load, plan the trip; spend sufficient time so you won’t get lost or frustrated during your trip.
Being a truck driver in the past, I also experienced that spending 15 to 20 minutes in the morning on a proper pre-trip inspection gave me peace of mind, made me safer, and thus, receive less harassment from enforcement officers during the day. I have seen truckers being fined and towed because they had not spent those few minutes in the morning. So whenever and whatever you do , spend more time on preparation, because it will make your job and life easier.
I want to congratulate our US Desi Trucking team for daring to put together a Truck Show in Central Valley, California. Our team has spent over 8 months in preparing this plan and finally, implementing it. Thanks to our sponsors and readers for giving us an overwhelming response. We guarantee that we will put forth our best efforts to make this show a success. Mark your calendars for September 6 and 7 for the West American Truck Show. Work smart, enjoy, and may God always bless truckers.
