The text message from the DVSA arrived, a stark reminder that my driving test was just 10 days away. The problem? I hadn’t even started my lessons yet. My test loomed, a daunting prospect for someone who hadn’t driven in years, and who had struggled with intense anxiety surrounding the task. My previous attempts at learning to drive had been sporadic and frustrating, leaving me feeling defeated and unsure. As a busy city dweller, I knew I needed a more focused approach, so I decided to embark on a five-day intensive driving course. This seemed like the only way I could truly conquer my fear and learn to drive with confidence.
My anxiety wasn’t just about the mechanics of driving. It ran much deeper. I was terrified of making mistakes, of causing accidents, and of being judged as a bad driver. I sought out Confident Drivers, a driving school specializing in helping nervous learners. Their unique approach combined driving instruction with holistic wellbeing techniques, addressing not only the practical skills but also the mental barriers holding drivers back. I signed up for their VIP Confidence to Drive program, which included five days of lessons with driving instructor Kev, a personalized anxiety report, a calming journal, and a dedicated e-learning course for managing stress. The program was designed to address my specific anxieties and build my confidence in a structured and supportive environment.
Before the lessons started, I filled out a detailed questionnaire about my driving fears. The resulting report identified my biggest anxiety: the fear of harming others. It also offered practical advice on reframing my negative thoughts and building a more positive mindset. This personalized approach immediately put me at ease and gave me a clear understanding of what to expect from the lessons. During our initial Zoom call, Kev’s warmth and reassurance helped to further quell my anxieties. He explained that the course would focus on small, achievable goals, slowly pushing me out of my comfort zone through repetition and positive reinforcement.
Our first lesson was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. I started by slowly maneuvering in a quiet car park, then gradually progressed to driving on country roads at 50 mph. It was amazing how much I learned in just one day. The lessons were tailored to my needs, with Kev patiently guiding me through each step and providing ongoing encouragement. He emphasized the importance of repetition and allowed me to revisit areas where I felt less confident. We also took regular breaks for coffee and to practice bay parking, giving me a chance to relax and refresh.
The intensive format was intense, but incredibly rewarding. Over the next four days, I tackled parallel parking, roundabouts, emergency stops, one-way roads, and even driving on a dual carriageway. I was amazed at how quickly my skills improved. Kev’s expertise and patience, coupled with my own determination, made a world of difference. By the end of the week, I had ticked off all the required skills and felt ready for my driving test.
Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. There were moments of doubt and even a few minor mistakes during the mock test. But Kev never gave up on me. He helped me to refocus, to understand where I went wrong, and to learn from my mistakes. He made me realize that the goal was to become a confident driver, not just to pass the test.
The day of the test finally arrived, and despite my nerves, I felt prepared. I drew upon the skills and techniques I had learned during the intensive course, and managed to pass with a few minor errors. The feeling of accomplishment was immense. I had not only achieved my goal but had also overcome a fear that had held me back for years.
Looking back, I realize that the intensive course was the perfect solution for me. It allowed me to learn quickly and efficiently, to gain confidence in a supportive environment, and to overcome my anxieties. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth every penny. If you’re a nervous learner or someone who is short on time, an intensive driving course could be the perfect way to achieve your driving goals.
