Learning how to drive.

theresa2008 · Post by **theresa2008** » Thu Jan 22, 2009 1:49 pm

So this is rather embarrassing to admit, but I am 24 years old and don't know how to drive. I never had the desire as a teenager to get my license and I just kept putting it off. Well recently my fiancee, John, bought a truck and we both decided that it's time for me to learn how to drive. I took my permit test and passed. John's taken me driving around the block a few times. Every time he says, "Alright let's go practice driving!" I start getting tense and worrying. Our truck is stick. The whole process of driving stick overwhelms me (clutch in, change gear, ease onto gas, etc.). There are so many steps and driving seems so foreign to me. I know I can do it and will eventually get the hang of it but I am struggling right now. Last time we went driving he had me drive on a main street and I freaked out and had to pull to the side of the road. I'm trying to change the way I think about driving and have a more positive attitude. Any words of encouragement would be helpful!

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 22, 2009 5:42 pm

way to go proud of ya. At least you have someone to help you learn and go with you thats a great thing. and with a "stick" you realy do have alot to think about and if you think about it there is enough to thing about just gettin dwn the road you don't have time to think about the bad things that could creep into your mind.you passed the hardest part some stranger siting there watching your everymove how did you do that bcouse you we locked onto what you needed to do not the other stuff. like i said i'm proud of you.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 22, 2009 6:01 pm

GOOD JOB...maybe could you prepare yourself and be the one to say hey lets drive around the block...the more you do it the easier it will get...I promise.

How do you feel after your back home safe?

You are lucky to have someone to help you...what would it be like on your own...You can do this it may just take time...reward yourself everytime and make sure you give yourself credit due...what a great new freedom you will have soon. I am excited for you...

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 22, 2009 6:24 pm

I am 24 as well and didnt get my license until after I was 18. I always told everyone that it was because I didnt "need" to drive, but really I was scared out of my mind. I ended up having to get my license because of a job. I was the same way as you are now, I avoided highways, busy streets and even intersections where I had to turn left without a turn signal. Trust me YOU CAN DO IT! The steps you have taken are in the right direction and definitely use the tools from the program to welcome the fear. Who knows? maybe it will make you a better driver!
Good luck!