By Staff
Driving is so scary. I have put off getting my license and even practicing driving for two years because being on the road is so nerve racking. Am I embarrassed that I am graduating and can’t drive? Of course. However, I feel better taking into account that everyone’s path in life is a little different; no two timelines are the same. Obviously, I will have to get my license this summer. But, I’ve come to peace with the fact I don’t have it yet because I had to overcome a lot of anxiety about driving. I have had serious fears of crashing a car and going to jail for the rest of my life. When that’s the first thing you think about starting the engine, can you understand why I’ve been putting it off?
I think people forget how dangerous driving is because of how common it is. Everyone is in fast-moving vehicles with unpredictable drivers. Being on the road at an unlucky time, such as with an inebriated driver, could be life-threatening. So yeah, it took me almost a year since getting my permit to drive on the freeway. It also took me three tries to pass my permit test….
If you got your license as soon as you could, congratulations! I’m proud of you. If you’re putting it off out of fear, I’m proud of you too. It’s hard to face your fears, and it’s hard to learn how to do new things. Combine the two and you have a real challenge. Try to give yourself some grace and follow your own timeline. (I’m not saying don’t get your license, but I am saying that wherever you’re at right now is okay).
I’d like to end this article with a reminder to drive safe, use your turn signals, not tailgate people on First Street (like this ONE lady), and to be a defensive driver. Happy driving, you’ll be great.
beniciapaw.com 