#nervousdriver

For some people learning to drive is no problem, for others there are many reasons why you might feel nervous or anxious. Learning to drive gives you such freedom and can change your life, but for some it is highly stressful. It is possible to overcome these nerves and successfully pass your test.

Choose your driving instructor carefully, it is important you have a good relationship with your instructor and that they help build your confidence. Learning with family and friends may seem like a good idea, but remember that qualified driving instructors are specially trainined and have lots of experience. Their skills will enable them to explain everything in a way that is suited to the way you learn to help you become more confident and progress. Their cars also have dual controls so that you can relax safe in the knowledge that they can step in and help if needed. Don't be afraid to look for another instructor if the partnership isnt working.

Some pupils find that taking their theory test first helps, as they have a better understanding of what is required of them.

Everyone will have bad days when they are learning to drive, you may find you stall, get beeped at because you were taking too long to perform a manoeuvre, struggled with for example reversing, this is normal and these experiences will help you become a better driver, you will conquer those manoeuvres. If you find the gears difficult why not consider learning in an automatic car, if you then want to drive a manual car, once you have gained some experience in the automatic you could return to a manual. Remember passing your test in a manual car allows you to drive manual and automatic cars, but passing in an automatic car only allows you to drive automatic cars.

There are many ways to help calm your nerves and anxiety, you should try different options and see what helps for you. Talking about your nerves with your instructor, friends and family can help, bottling up these emotions will make the problem seem worse than it is. When you are driving be aware of your posture and breathing, sit up straight and keep your breathing regular. Ask your instructor to break things down into smaller goals, so that you can focus on one step at a time and see your improvement. Some instructors will be able to provide you access to a "Confident Drivers Scheme" which will help provide techniques to help you conquer those nerves and manage your stress. These techniques allow you to choose which suits you best and you can work at your own pace, they may offer hypnotherapy audio files, relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, Mindfulness, TFT Meridian tapping and more. These skills often take just a few minutes each day but can have remarkable results.

Take time between your lessons to think about your lesson, what went well and what you felt that wasn't so good. On your next lesson discuss with your instructor how you felt, they will be able to provide advice and guidance to help you overcome any issues.