Much as I'm ashamed to admit it, I've failed my Class 7 road test twice. Most of my friends have heard the stories (and the excuses) multiple times, but I've reassured them that this summer is the year that I'll get it.
The problem, I think, is that I've accepted the title of "bad driver." And so now, as pathetic as it will sound, I get nervous at the very idea of taking the test again.
Some sort of panic sets in at the thought of inescapable failure. so I shy away from practising and anything that has to do with the test. And yes, I recognize this logic is skewed.
The last time I took the test, my instrucor had told me that he really wanted to pass me, but there were just a few little things I had to polish up on before I earned my licence.
Someone with a healthy mindset would have taken that feedback with hope and courage, practised the little details in question, taken the test again and passed.
Unfortunately, I was deaf to everything except the fact that I had failed and had returned home discouraged and frightened by the idea of driving.
They say if you fall, you have to get up right away and try again. It's true.
So I guess this article is just as much a pep talk to myself as it is encouragement to anyone else out there who is setting their sights on a goal they let slip in the past.
Like my driving instructor said, there were just a few little things; shoulder checking, waiting just a little longer at stop signs.
etc.
Taken individually, these skills are harmless and hardly intimidating at all. They are things I can easily practise and perfect.
So, whether you're a struggling studier, amateur photographer, imperfect athlete, or frantic intern; or if the idea of doing math, or writing essays, or speaking publically makes you rather ill. try to avoid accepting a reputation for being 'bad' at what you do and don't get discouraged.
You're not. There are most definitely just a few (or more) little things you have to practise and get the hang of. And once you have those things under control, the rest will be a piece of cake.
There's no shame in baby steps, especially when the alternative is not moving at all.
My next road test is booked for July. So fingers crossed and we'll see how it goes.
But um. you might want to stay off the road after that.
Anna Toth is a J.N. Burnett graduate
