I’m a pretty confident driver, but there’s one scenario where I feel that old doubt creeping in: when my family is in the car with me. Recently, my mom, brother, and sister-in-law came to visit me. Because I’m most familiar with my city, I was the one doing all the driving. A decade ago, this would’ve been enough to send me into an anxiety spiral.
But this time, I felt surprisingly calm. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to keep my cool behind the wheel, especially when the stakes are high. I’m sharing these tips to help you navigate the holiday roads with confidence and ease.
Managing Emotions and Avoiding Aggressive Driving
The holidays can be a stressful time, and the pressure of getting everyone to their destination safely can intensify those feelings. Here are some tips to help you manage your emotions and avoid aggressive driving:
- Practice mindfulness. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. If you need to pull over in a safe place to collect yourself, do so!
- Time management. Plan your route ahead of time and make sure you account for an increase in traffic. Running late could tempt you to speed, increasing your risk of a collision.
- Be patient. If others make mistakes on the road, don’t let it get to you. Don’t engage with aggressive drivers.
- Minimize distractions. Put your phone down and focus on the road. Ask your passengers to keep the vibes calm by avoiding tense topics of discussion.
By incorporating these strategies, you can significantly reduce stress and maintain a calm demeanor behind the wheel.
Staying Focused with Kids, Pets, and Family
Traveling with family can be chaotic, especially with kids and pets. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe and happy:
- Plan engaging, age-appropriate activities for kids. Things like books, games, and electronic devices can be a live-saver on long trips!
- Make sure your pets are comfortable and secure. A loose pet in the car is distracting and dangerous.
- Plan rest stops. Make sure everyone has time to stretch their legs and take care of business. This will make for a more comfortable journey for everyone.
- Discuss expectations ahead of time. Let your passengers know what you expect from them and what they can expect from you during the trip.
The more prep you do ahead of time, the better! Getting stuck in a stressful situation on the road is only exacerbated when no one knows what to do.
By following these tips, you can transform your holiday travels from a source of anxiety into a pleasant experience. Remember, a calm and focused driver is a safe driver. Enjoy your holiday season!
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I’m a pretty confident driver, but there’s one scenario where I feel that old doubt creeping in: when my family is in the car with me. Recently, my mom, brother, and sister-in-law came to visit me. Because I’m most familiar with my city, I was the one doing all the driving. A decade ago, this would’ve been enough to send me into an anxiety spiral.