Learning to drive can be an anxious time for a new driver. Stress and nerves can be elevated and that can affect the way you drive during driving lessons. Here are some tips and trips on staying calm and collected while taking a driving lesson.
Choose The Right Instructor
A good driving instructor will always be patient, understanding and experienced in helping new, nervous drivers. It’s important to take your time and do some research on various driving instructors prior to picking the best one for you.
Get Rest
Being well rested when you attend your driving lesson is important. This will make sure that your mind is clear and well rested. A well rested mind will also be able to handle stress easier as well.
During The Lesson
Focus On Your Breathing: Taking slow and deep breaths can help calm your body and mind.
Relax: When you tense up your muscles, you can start to feel anxious and stressed. Sit up straight, take deep breaths and loosen your grip on the steering wheel.
Focus On The Now: Don’t worry about making mistakes throughout the lesson. Focus on what is happening in real time. Concentrate on the instructions that your instructor is giving you.
Alleviate Doubts: Doubting yourself can be easy, but don’t dwell on your doubts. Everyone makes mistakes and that’s ok, that is why it is a driving ‘lesson’. Driving lessons are aimed at helping new drivers become safe and good drivers.
Talk Openly With Your Instructor: Speak freely with your instructor. Ask questions or ask for advice on how you are doing while driving. Ask for any advice or tips that they can give you.
Driving is not an easy task, there is a lot going on and it’s totally normal to feel nervous or anxious. Just be patient with yourself and focus on making progress, not being perfect.
