How to overcome those driving test nerves!
As I stood in a short queue at the traffic department waiting to renew my licence I was transported back to when I was 18 and I sat on a little chair waiting for the driving instructor to call me. I don’t think I have ever experienced nerves quite like that. My heart was beating out of my chest, my hands were sweating and I kept experiencing the most intense waves of nausea. How on earth was I going to be able to to drive? Let alone do the actual driving test?
I think most of you can relate to this if you think back to the day you sat waiting your turn in the yard. But if you are yet to take the test or you know someone who is due to go soon, be sure to have these tips to help you overcome those nerves handy:
1. Pretend it is a mock test
It may very obvious that the person sitting next you in the passenger seat is your examiner, but try to regard this as just a practice round. You will still do great but you will be less likely to panic if something goes wrong.
2. Don’t rush
Be sure to get as much practice as you can and only when you feel ready and confident, apply for the test.
3. Keep it to yourself
Don’t tell all your friends when you are going, it will only add to the pressure. Tell your mom and dad or a very close relative or friend because support is needed. But rather save the big announcement for everyone else once you have passed.
4. Don’t let a previous fail influence you
Don’t dwell on the pass. Think of it as experience and not a failure, you will have a better chance the second time round. And many people fail on their first attempt in any case.
5. Arrive at the test centre in good time
Try getting to the centre 15 minutes before your test. That way you are relaxed and not in a mad rush, you don’t want to add to your stress levels.
6. Book the first available test of the day
If your test is early in the morning you won’t have an entire day to sit and worry about it.
7. Breathe and relax
There are some techniques that can help with nerves and anxiety. One such technique is called 4-7-8 breathing:
The standard breathing relaxation method recommended for your natural breathing pattern is
- Breathe into your diaphragm, (the bottom of your stomach), not shallow chest breathing
- Inhale through the nose
- Exhale through the mouth
- Take longer to exhale than to inhale
- Slow your breathing down (less breaths-per-minute)
4-7-8 breathing simply adds:
- Begin by slowly breathing in through your nose for a count of 4.
- Hold the breath for a count of 7.
- Slowly exhale through your mouth for a count of 8. When you exhale, try to make a soft whoosh sound by holding the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth (or lightly clench your teeth) as you exhale slowly.
- Repeat this process for three more times (for a total of four breaths.) Do not do more than four breaths.
REMEMBER: 4-7-8 breathing shouldn’t be your naturally breathing pattern but should be used to calm nerves and find a more relaxed state of mind at or before times of increased anxiety.
8. You don’t have to be perfect
No one is expecting a perfect score. You are allowed to make a few mistakes so just remain calm and keep your head in the game.
9. Examiners are only human
They are not out to get you. You are one of many people they will be testing that day so just be polite and show them that you are confident and well prepared.
10. Don’t underestimate the power of sleep
Be sure to get a good night’s rest the night before your test. You don’t want to arrive feeling groggy and scratchy-eyed. A lot of accidents are caused by fatigue so it is essential that you get enough sleep.
Source: http://www.driving-test-success.com/
http://www.2pass.co.uk/
http://www.driving-test-success.com/