Tackling Driving Anxiety: 7 Tips to Build Your Confidence Behind the Wheel

 

I’ve talked about my driving lesson experience before and I know that this topic hits close to home for many of us: driving anxiety. As you might have read from my past experience driving, it has been a long journey for me, however, mark May 21, 2024, as I finally cross the finish line to passing my final driving test and obtaining my full G license. I put it on my vision board for this year and am happy I was able to get it off my to-do list finally!

To me, there is no specific age that you have to get your license. Everyone is different and everyone’s circumstances are different. Such as if you live in the city, you may be close to everything and have access to public transit, so driving may not be a priority. Or if you want to save money to get a professional driving instructor, you may need to wait until more funds are available. Lastly, you may avoid it because driving gives you anxiety. No matter the case, get your driver’s license when you want!

Whether you’re a new driver feeling overwhelmed by the bustling streets or an experienced driver who had a bad experience, know that you’re not alone. Driving anxiety is a common issue that you can overcome and conquer those nerves with the right strategies and mindset so you can drive with confidence.

 

1. Understanding Driving Anxiety

I’ve learned that driving anxiety can manifest in various ways. For some, it’s the fear of driving on highways, driving in bad weather or just a general fear of being on the road itself. I know that driving on the highway was nerve-wracking for me and trusting that everyone on the road will be safe. You may feel that people won’t understand but it’s important to recognize these feelings and understand that it’s okay to feel this way. How your body reacts to this driving anxiety is different, this may include:

• Sweating,
• Increased heart rate,
• Shortness of breath,
• Feeling nauseous,
• Overwhelming sense of dread or panic.

 

2. Identify Your Driving Triggers

Fears usually have triggers that cause it. Living in a family with autism, I know a lot about identifying triggers. One of the most effective ways to address your driving anxiety is to identify your triggers. It doesn’t have to be just one thing either it can be a combination of things therefore knowing this ahead of time provides you with a starting point to assist you in overcoming it. Take note of the situations that cause you the most stress and try to understand why they trigger you.

 

3. Gradual Exposure

I found that gradual exposure is a powerful technique that has worked for me. It helps in the process of overcoming driving anxiety. Start by driving in less stressful environments such as short trips around your neighbourhood during off-peak hours or very early morning drives on the weekend. Once you feel more comfortable you can then start gradually working your way up to more challenging situations such as driving on busier roads or longer distances. The exposure is a step in the right direction. Remember not to rush the process and take a moment to celebrate your progress.

 

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Being relaxed before you start driving will help you manage your driving anxiety. Therefore before getting behind the wheel, set yourself up for success. Think about what keeps you calm while driving? What do you need in your car to assist you in being calm?

Breathing techniques have helped me calm myself before practicing driving, driving with my instructor and even before taking my road test. Give yourself some time to take a few moments to practice deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help calm your nerves and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety. Here are a few other ideas:

• Take a moment to pray before driving to help you calm your mind and anxiety,
• Listening to calming music or a pre-arranged playlist of your favourite songs,
• Follow a guided meditation,
• Invite someone to be your passenger and go on a drive with you,
• Have someone talk to you on the phone through Bluetooth in your car.

 

5. Plan Ahead

I found that preparation significantly helped reduce my driving anxiety. Especially when it came to my final driving test. My fear of not knowing what to expect during the test is what made me the most anxious. However, I was fortunate to have a driving instructor help me practice the test route in advance. It made me more comfortable whenever I practiced and I was able to familiarize myself with the directions before doing my test.

Apart from the final driving test, if you are anxious about getting lost, you can always use a reliable GPS system to guide you. Whether you have a GPS built into your car or bought one, I believe knowing exactly where you’re going and how to get there can alleviate a lot of stress. Also, sometimes unexpected construction detours or things can come up so give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination so you don’t feel rushed.

 

6. Build Confidence Through Practice

One of my goals was to be a confident driver and what I learned is that confidence comes with practice. Everyone told me that the more you drive, the more comfortable and self-assured you’ll become and honestly it is true. Make it your goal to try to drive regularly, even if it’s just short trips to nearby places.

To get ready for my driving test I had to make driving a routine activity that I felt comfortable with. That meant driving to and from work, driving on the highway in the early weekend morning and practicing the driving route every week. Over time, the practice will decrease your anxiety since driving will become more familiar and less intimidating.

 

7. Celebrate Your Successes

Acknowledge and celebrate these successes. If you are like me, it may be hard to celebrate your successes. However, I have learned that it is very important to do so especially if you are the kind of person who forgets about themselves because you’re too focused on others or too busy. We have all been there. Know that you are not alone!

Remember that every milestone, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. Whether you manage to drive on a highway for the first time or complete a trip without feeling overwhelmed, that is a success worth celebrating! Positive reinforcement can boost your confidence and motivate you to keep pushing forward. If you like writing, you can also keep a journal to track your progress and reflect on how far you’ve come.

 

Final Thoughts

Overcoming driving anxiety is not going to happen overnight. Trust me when I say that it will be a journey that requires patience, persistence and practice. Remain positive and not get discouraged by setbacks because those days will come once and a while. When you remind yourself of your progress, it will help keep your end goal in mind. With time, practice, and the right strategies, you can conquer your driving anxiety! Tell me, do you enjoy driving?

Related:

• Driving Lessons – Day 3/4/5
• Driving Lesson Tales – Day 2
• Getting Driving Knowledge Ready
• Driving Lesson Tales – Day 1