BOOK HERE
It’s natural for learner drivers to feel nervous and apprehensive when taking to the wheel for the first time. Though for some, it’s a borderline terrifying prospect that results in overwhelming anxiety and potential panic.
Once you’ve gotten to grips with the basics, driving isn’t nearly as scary as you might expect. Hence, the key to making things work lies in overcoming initial nerves and anxiety with the help of an experienced driving instructor.
Unfortunately, not all driving instructors are capable of coping with anxious learners. Some are far too strict and old-fashioned in their approach to help anxious learners overcome their fears, often making the whole process even more difficult than it needs to be.
This is why it is essential to ensure you find the right driving instructor for you. Whether you’ve had a bad experience in the past with a poor instructor or you’re looking to get started for the first time, choosing the instructor for the job can and will make all the difference. Here’s why:
Good driving instructors build relationships with learners
For the professional driving instructor, nothing matters more than demolishing those restrictive teacher-learner barriers. Friendliness, approachability and a genuinely caring attitude are just as important as all the qualifications and credentials in the world.
The simple fact of the matter being that if you don’t feel comfortable and safe in the presence of your instructor from the moment you meet, they’re probably not the right instructor for you.
Good driving instructors understand anxiousness
In fact, a good driving instructor will instinctively assume that every learner will bring a certain amount of anxiety and nervousness along for the ride. They don’t simply presume that you’ll arrive full of confidence and enthusiasm – they acknowledge and respect the fact that most learners are pretty scared at first. The first step towards building confidence as a new driver is coming to terms with the fact that most new drivers are every bit as nervous as you are.
Good driving instructors take things slowly
Whichever driving school you choose, you’re unlikely to be thrown behind the wheel and simply prompted to “get moving” by your instructor. However, while some instructors have a habit of rushing things along, good driving instructors take things slowly.
Nerves and anxiety can be overcome with the ‘baby steps’ approach to driver tuition, which will only ever move at a speed that is comfortable for the learner.
Good driving instructors ask questions and listen
Last but not least, a good driving instructor knows how to extract important information out of their learners and adapt their teaching methods accordingly. Your nerves and anxiousness may be rooted in something completely different to those of any other learner driver, making conversation an important part of the process.
Whatever aspect of driving it is that worries you most, a good instructor will listen to your concerns and create a strategic programme to help you overcome your initial anxiety.
For more information or to discuss driver tuition for anxious learners in more detail, contact a member of the team at Manchester Driver Training today.
