LETTERS: Being afraid of doing things for the first time is part of life. This includes the process of learning.
Those who find it fun will enjoy the process of learning how to drive on the driving track and on the road. It can be an enjoyable experience.
However, for those who are afraid of the unknown, the experience can be quite daunting. How can this be overcome?
After gathering information from my students and my own child, who are in the process of getting their driver's license, this unknown that they fear is experiencing unpleasant feelings and thoughts.
This includes getting panic attacks, fear of damaging the car, feeling dumb for not being able to handle the car, being observed by others and getting scolded by instructors.
These can pull down one's motivation. Here are some suggestions on how to overcome this.
First, address your fear. Be honest about it. Share it with someone you trust, jot it down in your diary or practise self-talk.
Second, use affirmative words to boost positive feelings, like "I'm scared, but I can do it" or "I will enjoy this driving chapter of my life".
Third, trust your instructor — not all instructors are impatient. Focus on the guidance given instead of their shouts and murmurs.
Next, if it's your first time driving, perhaps the first thing to do is to sit in the driver's seat and feel the steering wheel for a few minutes.
Do this for a few days. Get comfortable. Along the way, you can continue with other tasks, like turning on the engine.
Finally, learn to relax. Deep breathing is a good relaxation exercise. If you feel anxious, take a few deep breaths.
Do not let your fear hinder you from learning how to drive.
Don't give up so easily. As the saying goes, it's all in your mind. So think and imagine realistically and set your mind to "I'm going to make it"!
NOR HANIZA HASAN
Senior Lecturer, Academy of Malay Studies, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Rembau
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times