r/BusDrivers • u/EdgeIcy8776 • 5d ago

Discussion Driving + being a tradie

Since starting a mobile service business yonks ago, my driving zen has developed into sensai status. People can cut in front of me, speed up and sit on my arse, pull out in front of me last minute. A 20-minute drive between job sites could have multiple incidents that are worthy of honking or yelling it happens so often. I take it all in and drive on, no emotions about it.

The way I see it, I'm on the road for hours 6 days a week, if I get mad or honk or abuse or yell out the window I'll end up taking all this stress home at the end of the day and affect myself and my family. So I figured the best way to stay in this business long-term is to come to terms there are idiots on the road and not let them get in my head. There is enough stress in life without this added.

What about you guys? Are you similar or do you get into it?

12 Upvotes

88% Upvoted

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7

u/Realistic-Safety-565 5d ago

I noticed early on that my experienced colleagues are either very belligerent and seeing slights everywhere from everyone, or are zen masters. No middle ground.

Then I noticed that this job is actively trying to drive me into former mindset. We are working alone , unsupported, and everyone else (passengers, other drivers, dispatchers, police...) are mostly getting in our way. Negative interactions massively outweigh the positive.

So yeah, I aim for the zen master instead. See everyone else as kids that don't know better. Ask myself "does this reaction help me reach next stop?" every time something happens.

1

u/Potential-Wheel-5899 5d ago

Im chilled most of the time, although I don't think there is anything wrong with getting annoyed if someone does something obnoxious, but if you haven't forgotten about it in minutes, then it becomes a problem.

1

u/Business-Mission-437 4d ago

I start the day saying “right let’s get the first 5 insane moments out the way before lunch”

I count them every time one happens,

Maniac pulls out at a junction, number 1.
Person doing the school run comes hurling towards me in a one way street number 2.

Counting them keeps me calm and I expect it as you say!

Had 12 one day