COMPANY BLOG
The Dangers of Distracted Living
We all know the dangers of distracted driving. In 2019 alone, distracted driving caused 3,142 deaths according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It’s clear that looking at your phone while driving can lead to accidents, injuries, or worse. But have you ever considered the danger of distracted living? This is when we let our phones and other distractions interrupt everyday life, making us less present and less connected to the people around us.
Imagine you’re having a holiday dinner with your family or friends. Instead of enjoying the conversation and the company, everyone is checking their phones. The moments meant for bonding and connection become shallow or totally missed. This is distracted living at its core.
Now, think about a meeting. Important discussions are happening, but half the people are sneaking glances at their emails or social media. This not only disrupts the flow of the meeting but also leads to missed information, confusion, and poor decision-making.
Distracted living impacts us in several ways:
- Harming Relationships: Constant phone use during family time or with friends can make people feel ignored and undervalued. Even having a phone visible on the table can make conversations less meaningful.
- Lower Productivity: Trying to juggle work and phone distractions leads to mistakes and slower progress. Focused work gets replaced with scattered thoughts.
- Mental Strain: The constant need to check notifications can cause stress and anxiety. It disrupts our peace of mind and creates unnecessary pressure.
- Loss of Personal Time: When we’re always glued to our screens, we miss out on important moments of relaxation and reflection.
To combat this, we can take simple steps:
- Phone-Free Zones: Set rules for no phones at the dinner table or during meetings to encourage real interaction.
- Scheduled Breaks: Decide on specific times to check your phone so it’s not a constant distraction.
- Mindfulness: Practice being present, whether it’s through hobbies, exercise, or just enjoying a quiet moment.
By being mindful of how and when we use our phones, we can improve our relationships, increase productivity, and reduce stress. It’s time to take control and stop letting technology interrupt our lives.
“You can’t keep the birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building a nest in your hair.”- Martin Luther
In today’s world, distractions are everywhere. Martin Luther once said, “You can’t keep the birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building a nest in your hair.” This means we can’t stop the random thoughts from popping in our heads, but we can choose which ones to pay attention to and let stick around. What we think matters because our thoughts influence our actions, and our actions shape our lives.
The Bible also gives us some good advice in Proverbs 15:14: “A wise person is hungry for knowledge, while the fool feeds on trash.” Simply put, smart people seek out useful information, while fools waste their time on junk. Today junk can be all types of things: endless social media, pointless entertainment, sensational news, and negativity. These distractions and negative thoughts clutter our minds and keep us from focusing on what’s important.
What we focus on matters. Just like eating junk food can ruin your physical health, filling your mind with negative or useless information can mess up your mental and emotional health. That’s why it’s important to feed your mind with good stuff – things that help you learn, grow, and improve.
Choosing wisely what we let into our minds helps us stay focused and live with purpose. It means looking for information that enriches us and helps us get better, rather than just passing the time. In a world full of distractions and negativity, it’s important to be intentional about what we pay attention to. By doing this,we protect our mental space and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.Try this week to focus on what truly matters and build a better, more thoughtful life, one good thought at a time.
“Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5
Entering a new year is like having a chance for a fresh start. We make promises to ourselves, set goals, and dream about a better future. There is an old proverb from the Bible that tells us something important: “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)
This means that if we plan well and work hard, good things can happen. It’s like making a roadmap for what we want to achieve. Here are a few reasons why planning is so important.
First, planning helps us see things clearly. When we know what we want and make a plan, it’s like having a map. This map guides us and helps us make smart choices.
Second, planning gives us a sense of purpose. Without a plan, it’s easy to feel lost. But with a good plan, we know where we’re going, and each step we take has a purpose to help us reach our desired destination.
Finally, planning helps us get things done. Instead of trying to do everything at once, we break big goals into smaller tasks. Each small task is like a piece of a puzzle, and when we finish them, we get closer to our big goal.
For this new year we’ve been given, it’s not just about making goals or resolutions. It’s about making a plan that fits our goals and dreams. The new year is a chance to start fresh, but it’s the steps we take that turn our dreams into reality.
Let’s remember the wisdom from Proverbs 21:5 as we plan for the new year. Good plans and hard work are like a team, helping us achieve our goals. With a good plan, the new year becomes an adventure where we can achieve great things, grow, and develop. Make 2024 your best year yet!
Don’t neglect the little things for they can become big things in a hurry
This past summer I was running down the road and some joker in front of me kicked up a rock, sending it right into my windshield. That small unmistakable “ping” put a tiny chip in the glass. At first I was frustrated but I quickly dismissed it thinking it was too small and insignificant to worry about. Life is busy and more important things took priority. After several months I forgot all about that tiny rock chip.
Fast forward several months to cold weather coming in…I’m what you could consider a semi-clean freak. I don’t like messes and I really don’t like a dirty truck, so I decided to run my truck through the car wash. As soon as I pulled in and that water hit my cold windshield, I watched a huge crack run from one side of my windshield to the other. I sat there and couldn’t believe what happened right before my eyes. That small chip, which I had neglected for so long, had now transformed into a large crack across my windshield. After sitting there for a minute angry with myself and thinking how Ishould have known better, the lesson became crystal clear. Small things unaddressed become big things in a hurry.
My inaction had allowed a small issue to escalate into a significant problem. Neglecting that tiny chip had led to abroken windshield that I couldn’t ignore. It was a reminder that much like the windshield, life’s small problems, when unaddressed, can snowball into major issues. We would be wise to quickly address the tiny rock chips before the carwash of life hits and causes those chips to spiral out of control and become bigger issues.
Addressing and dealing with issues early is the key to preventing them from growing and escalating into major problems. Little things unaddressed become big things in a hurry.
In our everyday lives, our thoughts are like the steering wheel of a truck, guiding us down the road. It’s not just about thinking; it’s about how our thoughts can shape everything we experience. The saying, “Change your thinking, change your life,” is like a hidden treasure that can totally turn things around for us.
Having a positive attitude is like having a trusty tool in your toolbox. When you choose to focus on the good stuff, tough situations don’t seem so bad, and you can handle them better. Let’s break down how this can make a difference in your life:
Feel Better Inside:
A positive attitude helps you feel more at ease, like driving on a smooth road instead of a torn-up lease road. It can keep those feelings of worry and sadness away and make you feel tougher.
Get Along with Others:
People like being around folks who are friendly and easy going. When you look on the bright side and show understanding to others, you’ll find that your relationships with your coworkers and family get better.
Get More Done:
Being positive gives you the energy to get stuff done. You’ll be more motivated, and you’ll be able to handle your tasks at work and home more easily.
Stay Healthy:
Believe it or not,your thoughts can even affect your body. Staying positive can help lower your blood pressure, make your immune system stronger, and help you stay healthy.
To start changing your thinking for the better, you can try these simple steps:
Understand Yourself:
Start by figuring out what kind of thoughts you usually have. Are they mostly positive or negative?
Be Thankful:
Every day, think about the things you’re thankful for, no matter how small they seem. This can help shift your focus away from the tough stuff.
Hang Out with Positive People:
Try to spend time with people who make you feel good and support you. Their positive vibes can rub off on you.
Set Small Goals:
Instead of aiming for something big right away, break it down into smaller steps. Achieving these little goals can help you stay motivated.
Learn from Mistakes:
When things don’t go as planned, don’t get down on yourself. See it as a chance to learn something new and do better next time.
Remember, your thoughts are like tools, and you have the power to shape them. When you change your thinking, you’ll change your life, and that can open the door to a better future.
DUNAGIN TRANSPORT TAKES LAS VEGAS…. New Mexico that is.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
As you may or may not know the city of Stamford had little to no water pressure last week due to a filtering issue that depleted water flow to the town and surrounding areas that they supply.
Thanks to our friends at CWS, we were able to help the town of Stamford, Tx by setting and filling frac tanks with non-potable water until their water supply could be restored.
We ask that you continue to pray for Stamford, TX.
According to James M. Decker, Mayor of Stamford, Texas, latest update they still have bags of ice and cases of water available to the community as they continue to work to restore water to the town.
If you would like to help the community of Stamford, please reach out to the city hall at (325) 773-2723 to get involved or to donate.
Make Yourself A Priority
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while working as a driver, mechanic, dispatcher or in the back office can be challenging due to long working hours and limited access to fresh, nutritious meals. However, prioritizing wellness through proper diet and exercise is crucial for anyone to ensure long-term health and well-being. This month we will discuss some practical tips and strategies to help improve diet and incorporate movement into daily routines, ultimately promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Plan Ahead for Nutritious Meals:
Being prepared is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. Consider the following tips to help make smarter food choices:
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Pack healthy snacks: Instead of relying on convenience store options, pack a cooler with fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yogurt. These snacks are not only nutritious but also provide sustained energy throughout the day.
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Prepare homemade meals: Before hitting the road, prepare meals in advance that are easy to store and reheat, such as salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Opt for lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish and incorporate plenty of vegetables.
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Choose water over sugary beverages: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water instead of sugary drinks. If you find plain water boring, infuse it with slices of fruits or a zero-calorie flavoring.
BONUS: Layer your salad in a jar for a quick and easy on the go lunch. Layer the dressing at the bottom, then toppings, and lettuce last. When ready to eat, dump on a plate or mix and eat straigh from the jar.
Optimize Meal Choices:
When making other food choices, consider the following strategies to prioritize healthier options:
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Look for balanced meals: Choose meals that include a mix of lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables. Avoid deep-fried or heavily processed foods, which are typically high in unhealthy fats and added sugars.
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Control portion sizes: We often face oversized portions, leading to overeating. Be mindful of portion sizes and consider sharing a meal or saving leftovers for later.
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Read food labels: When buying packaged foods, read the nutrition labels to make informed choices. Aim for products with lower sugar and saturated fat.
Incorporate Movement into Daily Routine:
Sedentary hours spent driving or sitting at a desk can take a toll on overall health. Prioritize regular physical activity with the following tips:
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Stretch breaks: Take short breaks every couple of hours to stretch and move your body. Simple exercises like stretching your arms, legs, and neck can help alleviate stiffness and improve blood circulation.
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Engage in on-the-go exercises: Incorporate exercises that can be done as you take a short break, such as squats, lunges, push-ups, or yoga poses. Make the most of any down time to get your body moving.
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Utilize technology: Download fitness apps or follow workout routines available online. These resources can provide guidance on exercises that can be done within limited space and time constraints.
**Click the images for links to the videos and websites**
Prioritizing wellness is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By following some basic diet and exercise tips, you can take proactive steps towards improving your overall well-being. Remember, making small, sustainable changes can have a significant impact on long-term health. Taking care of yourself not only enhances personal well-being but also ensures safer and more enjoyable journeys for everyone involved. Commit to better nutrition choices and incorporating movement into daily routines for a healthier life.
Complacency
Complacency is a word that most of us
have heard. We know that if we get caught up in a
routine or become comfortable with our surroundings,
we will drop our guard.
Complacency can occur in all kinds of relationships,
whether it be in professional, personal or spiritual lives.
It finds vulnerability in the comfort of our successes,
and waits for us to develop over-confidence, to lose
sight of our task at hand. We cannot allow this to
happen, don’t lose sight!
We are each called to be good stewards, “to be good
managers of the grace of God.” Let us not fall into
complacency, but look out for the good of not only
ourselves but for the good of our company and of
others.
Blessings,
Safety Dept.
Stay Sharp
One autumn day, the two ventured into the forest. Bruce, eager to show his strength, swung his axe vigorously but soon realized its blade had dulled. He worked relentlessly, exerting great effort, yet the wood resisted, barely yielding to his strikes.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kent, drawing on his years of experience, took a different approach. Leaning against a tree stump, he carefully inspected his axe blade. Recognizing its dulled state, he retrieved a whet stone and began sharpening it meticulously. Bruce watched, puzzled by the old man’s seemingly wasteful actions.
As the hours passed, Bruce struggled with every swing, while Mr. Kent’s newly sharpened axe effortlessly sliced through the wood. The old man collected a substantial pile of logs, leaving Bruce astounded and frustrated by his own lack of progress.
Curiosity overwhelmed Bruce, and he questioned Mr. Kent’s decision to waste time sharpening the axe. With a patient smile, the old man invited him to sit down and explained, “Sharpening the axe is an investment in efficiency, not a waste of time. Each swing with a sharp blade requires less effort and achieves greater results, ultimately saving time and energy.”
Bruce absorbed the wisdom, realizingthe significance of preparation and working smarter. He examined his dull axe and acknowledged the value of Mr. Kent’s approach.
From that day on, Bruce embraced the old man’s technique. Prior to each wood cutting task, he diligently sharpened his axe. The results were remarkable, as he discovered he could accomplish more with less effort, experiencing increased efficiency and productivity.
There is an ancient proverb tucked away in a small book of the Bible, Ecclesiastes, which says, “Using a dull axe requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed.” The principle to sharpen the blade illustrates the significance of continuous growth and development in all areas of life.
Whether it be our professional pursuits, relationships, personal development, or health and wellness, sharpening our skills and keeping a positive mindset helps us to navigate all of life. Embrace the call of wisdom and keep your axes sharp.