This is particularly important when I’m under pressure or facing challenging situations
Being in the now is something that I’ve been reminded of recently, especially as I was almost wiped out by a transit van on the M56 a few weeks ago. The incident unnerved me so much I am now taking an Advanced Driving Course.
In recent times I’m having to drive ever longer distances on ever busier roads for work. However, I’ve always found long drives exhausting, especially since the train crash. Whenever I’m driving on motorways, I see danger everywhere – there are so many racers, weavers, and people who aren’t paying attention. The overseas trucks where the driver is on the left-hand side of the cab also worry me as I’m never sure if they can see cars on their right-hand side.
My anxiety and fear tend to mean that I stop breathing for long periods (not a good reaction!), and my concentration works overtime. My body is always tense, ready to spring into action, and all of this tends to heighten my PTSD ‘fight or flight’ symptoms. Even when I take a stop in the services to compose myself, my brain is a whirl of worry as I contemplate the miles I still have ahead of me.
However, the lovely calm instructor that I had on my first lesson taught me some practical tips on slowing down and controlling the cars immediately around me. But the best piece of advice that they gave me was to think only about the now.
Being in the now is a simple but powerful concept that I’m trying to implement while driving. It’s about focusing my attention on the present moment, rather than dwelling on whats happened behind me or worrying about the road ahead. When I’m fully present, I’m finding I’m able to relax a bit more into the drive. I become more aware of my surroundings, my thoughts and feelings, and the vehicles around me just at that point of time. Being in the now helps me to reduce stress and anxiety, improves my concentration and, hopefully, will conserve my energy.
Of course, this doesn’t just apply to driving. It’s a valuable reminder for just about everything. For me, the past can be a source of chagrin, while the future can be a source of anxiety. I may dwell on past mistakes or worry about what the future holds. However, by focusing on the present moment, I can free myself from these negative thoughts and emotions. This is particularly important when I’m under pressure or facing challenging situations, as I can become overwhelmed by my thoughts and emotions, making it difficult to make clear decisions or take effective action.
I’m using driving as the example for this article as it is such a complex task that requires a high degree of concentration and awareness, and there are lot of us out there doing it. In the case of driving, being in the present is especially important. By focusing on the present moment, you can become more attuned to your surroundings, including other cars on the road and potential hazards. You can also become more aware of your own thoughts and feelings, such as anxiety or stress, which may be impacting your ability to drive safely.
There are several practical tips that can help all of us to be in the now while driving:
*Focus on your breathing: Taking deep, slow breaths can help to calm your mind and reduce anxiety. This can help you to stay focused on the present moment, rather than getting lost in your thoughts.
*Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. You can practice mindfulness while driving by paying close attention to your surroundings and focusing on the sensations of driving.
*Use positive self-talk: Positive self-talk involves using affirming statements to help build confidence and reduce negative thoughts. For example, you might say to yourself, “I am a safe driver and I can handle this situation.”
*Take breaks: If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed while driving, it can be helpful to take a break. Pull over at a rest stop or take a quick walk to clear your head and reduce stress. As I drive a Jaguar with the cat emblem in the centre of my steering wheel I’ve even been advised to stroke the emblem and think about my cats and stroking them which always calms me down.
By implementing these practical tips and focusing on being in the now, we can all become safer and more confident drivers. Remember that driving is a skill that requires practice and patience, and it is okay to take your time and go at your own pace. By staying focused on the present moment, you can enjoy the journey and arrive at your destination safely and with confidence.
I wonder how many of us think we’re the best driver in the world and everyone else is an idiot?
