By Ineza Merci
For years, the driver’s seat felt like the most intimidating place in the world. I enjoyed taking
advantage of being a passenger princess. When talking to friends and family some agreed and
said driving made them anxious, while others said it was easy and that it made them feel free.
After I passed my permit test, I finally sat in the driver’s seat to begin practicing. My hands
gripped the steering wheel tightly, my heart raced when driving alongside others and being
honked at felt like a personal attack. What most people saw as a simple task. In fact, a task of
independence became something I tried to avoid.
At first, it was hard to pinpoint the exact root of my anxiety. I made excuses saying, “I’m not in
the mood to drive,” but the truth was hard to admit.: I was scared. Scared of getting into an
accident. Scared of being judged by how late I started driving.
Avoidance worked until it didn’t. Inconveniences piled up and I grew tired of depending on
people to take me places. I grew tired of spending money on Uber. More importantly, I finally
came to terms with how fear shaped my everyday life. I want to be independent. I want to be
confident. Driving was the first step to reclaiming both independence and confidence.
Taking control didn’t happen overnight. I started small: short drives, driving earlier in the day
and driving in empty parking lots. Driving with family helped me take mental notes on what I
need to improve for next time. Enrolling in Driver’s Ed really pushed me further to take more
control of my driving anxiety.
The more I practiced, the more I felt at ease when taking control of the steering wheel. I’ve
tackled driving in inclement weather, driving at night and dealt with nighttime traffic. But I’m
not the type to volunteer to drive on a road trip just yet.
If you or anyone you know is afraid of driving, just remember to take a deep breath, gather
support, look up therapeutic tips to help ease your anxiety, or adopt any other remedy that may
help you feel a bit better about driving. Because, let’s be honest, you’re not alone.
Oh, and remember, don’t forget to buckle up!