No big deal…
I’ve often found that personalities change when people drive. The nicest person can become totally different when get behind the wheel of a car. They take things personally and stop using reality when they drive. Are you this type of driver; or do you know someone who is like this?
Putting things into perspective is important as a driver. Part of our driving decisions depends on the actions of other drivers, so having a long term goal is important. I watched a diver weave in and out of traffic the other day. What was their hurry? I moved over to let them pass. For me it was no big deal. I caught up to them at the next red light. Speeding up so they could stop didn’t make sense to me.
While I was driving through a parking lot another driver quickly took a parking space right in front of me. I ended up parking two spaces further. It was a nice day and I have the energy to walk, so it was no big deal. Parking lots create rage and rudeness with certain drivers. As I tell my students, your legs aren’t broken, so walking an extra 5 seconds from a parking space which is further away isn’t going to hurt you. Driving courtesy should also happen in parking lots.
While I was approaching an unmarked pedestrian crossing, I spotted a couple of pedestrians reaching the curb. I waved them to cross since they should be given the right of way. The driver behind me seemed very annoyed. Letting pedestrians go first had cost me roughly 10 seconds from my travels. No big deal. I was pleased to let them cross and they even smiled and waved thank you.
On my way to my office I have to travel on a road that has a right lane that ends. A driver further ahead of me had signaled and was trying to work their way into our lane. The driver directly in front of me had sped up to block him. Why put your vehicle in a risky situation like that? I eased off my gas to let the driver in. I only lost a few seconds off my travels. No big deal. Further up the road that driver ended up turning, so I was right behind the aggressive driver once again. In other words, I didn’t lose any time after all.
Sometimes “Murphy’s Law” takes over and I end up reaching a lot of red lights as I drive. Since the lights stay red for roughly 30 to 45 seconds, it only slows me down slightly. I tend to leave early enough so I’m not rushing myself and feeling stressed if I reach those red lights. So, when a red light approaches, it’s no big deal. I still reach my destination in plenty of time.
Emotions play a big role in our daily driving. Pick your battles and if it doesn’t really affect you, it’s no big deal.
Scott it is like you were at one of my talks that I give to groups about increasing your car safety quotient.
I’ve been mentioning this kind of activity (that results in increasing the pleasure of your drive and keeping you much calmer in your life) ever since our book came out.
Even the simple act of smiling at another driver to wave them in if they are waiting is good for you.
Keep it up. Your articles are down to earth and so easy to follow.
Live & Love in JOY and Drive Safely wherever you go.
S>