From a young age, I dreamed of building my own business. Growing up, I was inspired by stories of strong women who defied societal norms and achieved greatness in their respective fields. However, nothing could have truly prepared me for the unique challenges and obstacles I would face as a female entrepreneur in the male-dominated box truck industry.
Starting my own box truck business was both exhilarating and daunting. The initial stages were filled with uncertainty. Skepticism from potential partners who questioned my ability to succeed in an industry traditionally dominated by men only fueled my determination to prove them wrong.
I immersed myself in learning every aspect of the business, from creating my business profile to building a team and financial management. I knew the only way to succeed was to ensure I had a solid foundation to build upon.
Tackling Challenges As A Female Truck Driver
One of the most significant challenges I faced was a lack of mentorship and support. Thankfully, I had a few role models to guide me through the complexities of entrepreneurship in the box truck industry.
The lack of support could have been discouraging, but instead, it pushed me to step out and faith, be a student of my business, and learn through trial and error.
Another major hurdle was balancing work and my personal life. As my business grew, so did the demands on my time. I often found myself working all day and juggling multiple responsibilities. Through these experiences, I learned the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. Prioritizing my well-being allowed me to maintain my passion and energy for my business.
Finding Balance With Routines & Self-Care
Staying grounded through self-care routines and maintaining a clear vision of my goals helps me push through challenges.
My day-to-day routine is always filled with adventure, especially depending on which of my businesses take priority.
I start each morning with a 30-minute walk, followed by prayer and reading a daily Bible devotional to set a positive tone. From Monday to Friday, I head to the warehouse to check on my teams, ensure the trucks are loaded, and stop by the gas station before they head out.
After that, I return home to prepare for client appointments focused on life insurance and investment/retirement planning, which typically run until 4 p.m.
Once my appointments wrap up, I handle paperwork, make dinner, and get ready to do it all again the next day. Some days, instead of going to the warehouse, I check on our short-term rentals or tend to our cattle and farm. No two days are ever the same.
I dedicate Saturdays and every other Sunday to self-care. On Saturdays, I have acupuncture sessions. Every other Sunday, I get a massage. This routine helps me reset both my body and mind after a busy week. Weekends are strictly for me and my family, and I avoid working unless there’s an emergency. It’s how I maintain balance in my life.
Driving Forward With My Mission In Mind
Staying focused on my purpose fuels my drive to keep moving forward, despite obstacles. I also lean on my family and friends for guidance and encouragement.
Despite facing challenges in the trucking industry, my journey has been filled with numerous positive experiences. Each milestone— whether that’s securing a significant contract or successfully navigating a logistical challenge— is a testament to my hard work and perseverance.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my entrepreneurial journey has been the opportunity to mentor and support other women aspiring to enter the box truck industry/business world. Building a community where I’m able to share my experiences and insights with them has been incredibly fulfilling and has reinforced my belief in the importance of lifting each other up.
I believe, together we can create a more inclusive and diverse business landscape where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Sausha’s Tips For Moving With Purpose
1. Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key. Trust in your abilities and knowledge.
2. Seek Out Support Networks: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who understand your challenges and can offer guidance and encouragement.
3. Never Stop Learning: Stay curious and continually seek out opportunities for growth and development. Knowledge is your most powerful tool.
4. Embrace Resilience: Understand that setbacks are part of the journey. Learn from them, adapt, and keep moving forward.
5. Prioritize Self-Care: Your well-being is crucial to your success. Make time for rest, hobbies, and activities that rejuvenate you.
