Learning how to drive, like any new task, can be a little scary. At Official Driving School we’ve been teaching teens how to drive for over 40 years, so like, nearly half a million students! I guess you could say we’re experts in teaching teens how to do the driving task. In doing so, we’ve noticed some 3 things that really help students who may feel anxious or overwhelmed when starting driver education.
- Talk About Your Concerns:
- Openly discuss your concerns with your driving instructor or family members. Expressing your anxieties can provide emotional support and valuable insights into overcoming them.
- Choose Your Driving Instructor:
- At Official Driving School driving instructors place their availability on the calendar in the Student Portal, so students can choose which Instructor they wish to drive with. Select a Behind the Wheel (In-Car Lessons) driving instructor who you feel comfortable with and can provide patient guidance throughout the learning process. Their encouragement and calm demeanor can go a long way in boosting your confidence.
- Remember to Breathe:
- Learning relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, can help you stay calm while driving. Practice these techniques before and during your driving sessions to manage your body’s anxiety response.
- Positive Affirmations and Self-Encouragement:
- Create a list of positive affirmations related to driving and repeat them to yourself daily. Phrases like “I am a capable driver” or “I handle driving with ease” can foster a positive mindset. Remove things like “I can’t” or “It’s too hard” from your vocabulary. Your words are powerful tools to change your mindset!
Hopefully these observations help you as well! Remember, overcoming driving anxiety is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and understand that it’s normal to feel nervous at the beginning. With time, practice, and the right mindset, you can become a confident student.
