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W I N T E R 2 0 2 2
BE WELL INSIDE AND OUT Take Care of Yourself This Winter
professionals, but it also inhibits your immune system, lowers your defense against viruses, and can increase inflammation in your body. That’s why it’s important to start your day fresh by getting adequate sleep (7-9 hours) during your 10-hour break. This regulates your hormones and promotes your overall health. Even naps help to supplement the rest you might miss while on the road. EAT WELL . Good nutrition fuels your energy, focus, and emotional health. An important key is to limit added sugar and other highly processed foods that inevitably lead to a mental and physical “crash.” Nutrient-dense foods like fruits and veggies, lean
protein, and healthy fats keep you trucking while fortifying your defense against sickness and seasonal depression. EXERCISE . When it comes to exercise, any movement is better than none. Even light physical activity can improve your mood. A 10-minute walk around your truck or on the dock is great way to maintain your health and alleviate tension, and you can do it almost anywhere. Just make sure to bundle up first! TAKE TIME FOR YOU . Make sure you’re using all of your paid time off (PTO) so you can take time to unwind, do your favorite hobbies, and spend
time with the ones you love. Investing this quality time in yourself relieves stress and promotes happiness, and that all adds up to good health. GET SUPPORT . If you’re struggling with depression and anxiety, you’re not alone. Through your Averitt benefits, you have access to compassionate, professional licensed counselors through Health Advocate, our EAP (Employee Assistance Program) provider. They can talk with you and put you in touch with expert resources for additional support. To reach a counselor 24/7, call 1-800- 854-1446. W m
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression brought on by the change in seasons. Typically, it sets in when the days start to get short in the late fall and winter and goes away during the spring and summer. During the darkest and coldest time of year, these small acts of self-care add up to help you stay emotionally well. Here are a few simple actions that will brighten your day and promote your overall health. SLEEP . While many over-the-road and team shuttle drivers find it challenging to get enough rest, studies show that it’s important to prioritize your sleep. Lack of sleep is not only a safety concern for transportation
GOOD HABITS THAT MAKE ‘CENTS’ 5 Smart Money Habits To Start This Year
•“Snowball” method: Pay off the smallest balance first, then the next smallest, and so on. 3. PLAN FOR RETIREMENT Many people who’ve accelerated retirement savings put away about 15% of their income. These four strategies may help you gradually get to that goal. • Increase your retirement savings by at least 1%, each year or when you receive a raise. Averitt is committed to helping associates save for retirement with autoenrollment in a 401(k) account when hired, and it automatically increases your contribution by 1% each year. Work your way up to 10-15% for optimal retirement savings. • Check your progress at least yearly. Rebalance your funds if needed or consolidate if you have previous savings that you can roll into one account. • Treat saving for your future like another bill you pay each month. Automatic withdrawals from your paycheck to your retirement account allow you to pay your future self, first.
When it comes to managing your money and saving for goals, the earlier you can figure out what works for you, the better. Experts at Principal Financial Group, our 401(k) and Profit Sharing partner, offer these good habits that make a big financial difference in the long run. 1. LIVE BENEATH YOUR MEANS Small changes do make a big impact over time, and that includes creating a budget and managing your expenses so you’re always spending less than you earn. Changes that might help:
4. SAVE FOR EMERGENCIES Would a $500 expense throw off your budget in a big way? If the answer is yes, it’s a good idea to set up an emergency fund. That way, the unexpected doesn’t derail your long- term plans. • Several months of income is generally the advice for an emergency fund, but just starting with something – even $100 a month – helps create that savings habit. • Add to it gradually as you’re able to build toward three to six months of savings for unexpected events. 5. KEEP LEARNING ABOUT MONEY Education drives confidence, and confidence drives action. Even investing a small amount of time learning more about personal finance may provide a huge boost to your self-confidence in financial decision making. These good financial habits can help you learn how to achieve bigger, long-term goals. Visit InsideAveritt.com/Principal to view your Profit Sharing and 401(k) information, and take advantage of a wealth of tools and tips for strengthening your financial wellness today and down the road. W m
• Drive older vehicles • Own a modest home • Dine out less • DIY when possible
2. MANAGE YOUR DEBT When it comes to tackling debt, there are a few different approaches, and it’s important to find the one that works for you. Here are the two most popular many successfully knock out debts: • “Avalanche” method: Pay off the highest- interest balance first, then the next highest, and so on.
BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION: 800.233.9944 / Option 3 • averittbenefits@averittexpress.com • Wellness Matters 2022
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