Even experienced drivers get spooked by unexpected things on the road, that just means you’re paying attention!
Your idea to start small is a good one. Start by driving to places that you don’t have to figure out how to get to, that way you can get a feel for the skills of driving without having to figure out directions at the same time. When my daughter learned to drive I remember telling her it’s like a new remote control, at first you have to look every time you use it and it feels unfamiliar, but soon enough you know where all the buttons are and you push the right one without thinking about it.
Drove to the park and back (about 10 minutes each way) this morning all on my own! I did it! I think next step will be to drive to eithe the corner store or the grocery store.
Ok, feeling better about things now. Thanks for the support all!
Driving on your own at first IS scary - that’s not an unreasonable fear. Starting small is great advice - up and down the block, to the corner store and back, etc. Build on your successes and keep on keepin’ on.
I took drivers ed but I don’t think that my parents make especially good driving teachers. Just driving in my neighbourhood has helped me somewhat as well as the passing of time.
I am looking forward to not being driven and to my first roadtrip. I plan to get AAA before my roadtrip, and a new car stereo.
This would be a perfect afternoon for driving around the peninsula, which is far less scary than downtown.
It’s almost always a perfect afternoon for driving around the peninsula. It’s gorgeous. And just a fun place to drive around semi-aimlessly.
Actually, I drove to Safeway and back this morning and got all my Thanksgiving stuff that I needed. It wasn’t too bad. This is definitely a good day to drive around the island.
I feel like a bird that’s just been let out of her cage!
Don’t forget that confidence in driving will spread to other areas. Pretty soon you’ll be skydiving, addressing congress-- who knows?
My anxiety wasn’t too bad back when I started driving, thank goodness, and my mom was a really great teacher, so I lucked out. When it came time to drive in big cities though, I’d avoid it.
When that finally got old and/or impossible I learned a trick that I still use in all sorts of situations. I just ask myself: 'what’s the worst that can realistically happen?" If I get lost, I will not wander forever, I just have to ask for directions. If I do a lousy job of merging, most drivers will just curse and move to avoid me. I mean, unless I just completely lose my mind, I’m not going to get hit, right?
Drive yourself everywhere, take it easy on yourself, and do laps for extra practice-- you’ve got some gorgeous town and country to enjoy!
