GUEST: SHOP TIME: IT’S GOOD FOR THE SOUL!
IF YOU’RE LIKE ME, YOU ENJOY heading out to the garage, the driveway, the shady tree or the shop for some time to wrench. Whether you’re in the middle of a full-blown restoration or just a simple oil change on your daily driver, getting out to the shop is great for more than just obvious reason of
finishing a project. Wrenching, sanding, grinding, cleaning and fixing is therapeutic.
The shop is a great place to escape from the daily grind. It’s an opportunity to enjoy your current project, hang out with a few friends, listen to some tunes and a enjoy refreshment or two—ok, maybe three!
Getting out there, moving forward, working and enjoying your time can be a de-stresser. It sounds funny, but slowing down to work on your stuff ... who would have thought, right?
Today’s world is moving faster than the trucks we drive. Budgeting that time to be in the shop and hanging with your friends accomplishes more than just progressing on your build (or theirs). You are fostering a sense of accomplishment, self-pride and probably the most important thing: making memories.
When your “truck buds” get into the mix, you become part of a “fraternity.” A special feeling of camaraderie develops when you work on a project together. Pushing one another to meet a deadline, make a show or just make it possible to cruise your ride is the whole point.
Another bonus is an opportunity for some family time. When you have teenage kids, it can be hard to find a common topic or subject, but “shop time” can help bridge some of those gaps. Seeing your son, daughter or your better half get excited about working on a truck is a rad feeling.
Lately, when I sit down to write the “Last Word” column, I feel like I am just as much reminding myself as I am you to look at the big picture. You’ve heard me talk about our community and the people who make it so great. The essential thing these people do for one another is build relationships and make lasting memories. Step back and think about how many friends you have made from your truck passion and hobby. I doubt you’ll come up empty.
So, grab a friend, your kid or your dad, and start that project you’ve been thinking about. Set a deadline, change the deadline, then change it again! Have fun and enjoy the entire process. The process of working with friends, giving each other crap, making memories and building something awesome!
You’ve heard me talk about our community and the people who make it so great. The essential thing these people do for one another is build relationships and make lasting memories. Step back and think about how many friends you have made from your truck passion and hobby.