Do you need to book drive test sometime in the near future? Needing your driver’s license? When it comes to basically any test, there’s no doubt about it that they can be incredibly anxiety-inducing. Honestly, if you think about it, the prospect of getting behind the wheel can evoke feelings of nervousness and anxiety because anything could happen. One little swerve could cause a nasty accident; who would want to deal with that?
Whether you’re a new driver or someone returning to driving after a break, it’s not uncommon to experience apprehension. Seriosuly, it’s not, and cars are sometimes known as a “ton death machine,” so it’s really understandable. It’s not even about whether you’re driving a truck or just a smaller vehicle; all of them can be pretty intimidating. However, a lot of people, especially those living outside of major cities, will need to use a car, so this is a fear that needs to go away.
The good news is that overcoming driving anxiety is entirely possible with the right mindset and strategies. So, with that said, here are some effective tips to help you stop being nervous when getting behind the wheel.
Just Try and Start Small
If the idea of driving makes you nervous, start small. It’s really going to help to just begin with short trips to familiar places or quiet residential streets where traffic is minimal. Then, you can start gradually increasing the complexity and duration of your drives, which will help build your confidence without overwhelming you.
Professional instructors Can Help
Depending on where you live, you can have any random person with a driver’s license to help you out. However, some areas require you to have a professional to step in for assistance. So, with that said, why not get a professional on your side so you can feel confident that you’re literally doing everything right? They can provide valuable guidance, correct any bad habits, and offer reassurance. You want to make sure your driving experience becomes far more comfortable, right? Well, getting a professional might actually be the best thing you could do!
Do Small Breathing Exercises Before Driving
Alright, so this probably sounds very generic, but sometimes, the most generic advice has truth to it! Think of it this way: Deep breathing is a simple yet effective technique to calm nerves. So, before starting the car, take a few minutes to practice deep, slow breaths. Focus on inhaling deeply through your nose, holding your breath briefly, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth. This can help relax your body and reduce anxiety.
Gradual Exposure to Challenges Can Help
When it comes to being on the road, your flight or fight response might come out; you need to think fast. As in, sometimes you might need to think in milliseconds, and it needs to be the right decision. So, as you gain confidence, gradually expose yourself to more challenging driving situations. This could include driving during busier times of the day, navigating through different types of intersections, or taking longer journeys. Each successful experience will contribute to your sense of accomplishment.
We are not lawyers and this is in no way intended to be used as legal advice . We cannot be held responsible for your results. Always do your own research and seek professional legal help.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.