Driver Training – Concentration, discipline and execution. Do you drive with emotion?

In this article on driver training and driving with emotion we consider some differences between experienced and inexperienced drivers but also those drivers who have undertaken further training. We also talk about how driver trainers can help develop these key skills at any level.

We as drivers may not always be aware of why we make some of the decisions we do. Subconsciously the way we feel when driving holds the key in to this. The first example is if you are late for an appointment or meeting, have you noticed that you take greater risks to try and make up the time? The second question is did it make a difference to your arrival time, was the risk worth taking? In short, leave enough time for the journey.

Developing greater discipline around this attitude to driving may help eliminate time pressure situations on the road and that concentrating on your driving starts before you have get in the car.

Concentration.

Concentrating and continuing to concentrate for the entirety of your journey also takes great discipline. There are many hints and tips on extending your concentration levels related to hydration and diet.

• drink non caffeinated fluids
• rest well before your journey
• plan breaks along your route if driving for a sustained period
• feed your brain energy
• train yourself to concentrate for longer

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has some great articles on their website relating to fatigue – https://www.rospa.com/road-safety/advice/drivers/fatigue/

Drive with emotion.

When we are tired, our decision making process is affected. As people its is also our emotional subconscious that is affected. You may be more familiar with the phrase ‘Road Rage’ which is essentially the same thing. To be in a positive and relaxed frame of mind when driving allows;

• clarity of thought
• avoidance of complacency
• alternates to spot the trouble before it occurs.

If these disciplines slip, we are drawn into mistakes that we then take out on the other road user. Examples being swearing, use of the horn, flashing of lights or worse.

Car technology.

Technology in vehicles in developing rapidly and some of this tech has your back covered. Do not become reliant on this, complacency is a killer. The technology that springs to mind is lane assist warnings. If on the motorway you stray out of your lane by crossing the white line you will hear an audible noise or warning to make sure you come back into line. In developed technology the car might even do this for you.

 

Training.

By taking further training or regular training for driving, you are better placed to understand the risks on the road. This immediately increases your concentration when driving as the hidden dangers you perhaps never saw are now glaringly obvious. You ensure you are less distracted on the road and this helps with being more relaxed and in control. The advanced driving course is great for improving car control certainly but also your driving subconscious and what takes place in the brain. This effect is less obvious when starting out.

Training new drivers or full licence holders, we as trainers have the opportunity to discuss this aspect of driving and really open the door for the trainee. Sharing experience may sometimes not be enough to help others increase or sustain their concentration or indeed control their emotion. Different training techniques will be key and one of these is to make the situation personal which you would hope, really bring the topic to life.

To find out how you can develop your own drive or become someone who helps others develop, follow the link below.

https://www.firstdrivesouthwest.co.uk/advanced-driving-course/