It is only natural for many people to get a little bit nervous before a driving lesson. However, for some the issue is so big that it actually prevents that from taking their lesson in the first place, thus preventing them from ever getting out on the road for themselves.
Confidence is a major factor when it comes to successful driving, as you need to feel like you are fully in control of your vehicle at all times. Not having that confidence is a big stumbling block, but it is one that can be overcome with time and the right effort. Here we look at a few of the things that you can do to get rid of those driving lesson nerves.
Speak to Your Instructor
Your driving instructor isn’t just there to simply impart their wisdom and show you how to drive, though that is a large part of their role. They are also tasked with making sure that you are fully-equipped to handle the road and all of the challenges that it presents.
Bear in mind that an experienced driving instructor will have encountered all kinds of students, so you don’t need to worry about admitting that you are a little nervous before the lesson. Doing so will allow the instructor to tailor their lesson plans to you, allowing them to build your confidence up slowly rather than throwing you in at the deep end.
Every driver is different, so make sure your instructor knows how you are feeling when you get behind the wheel so that they can act accordingly.
Focus on the Positives
Even the best drivers made mistakes during their lessons. It is part of the process of learning and the key is to use those mistakes and grow from them.
The worst thing that you can do is focus solely on the mistakes you made in a previous lesson. While you should certainly use them as a learning experience, making them your sole focus is naturally going to make you nervous to try again.
Before each lesson think back to your previous lesson and focus on the things that you did well. Knowing that you have the ability in one area means that can become more confident about developing the same level of ability in another. Use the positive experiences to help you overcome the negative ones.
Preparation
The hour or so before your driving lesson is extremely important, as it will set up your mood and often have an effect on the course that the lesson ends up taking.
Try to take a little time out and relax before your instructor arrives. Play some soothing music or put your feet up and read a book. Anything that takes you out of a stressed mindset and into one that feels a little bit more relaxed.
Doing so will mean that you also feel more relaxed when you get into the vehicle. Without the tension and stress that is caused by modern life weighing you down you will be in a much better position to take instruction and use it positively.