Helping Gen Z Get Comfortable Behind the Wheel

Many members of Gen Z have expressed a fear of driving or are avoiding it altogether. Anxiety can stop many of us from doing the things we love. And sometimes, it can even keep us from getting where we need to go. 

Why isn’t Gen Z driving?

Some members of Gen Z feel anxious about navigating unfamiliar roads and highways, especially in busy dense areas. And many young people may not have the same level of exposure to driving as previous generations, since they’re more used to using ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Young drivers are more likely to be distracted by texting, social media, and other apps while driving, which can lead to accidents and near-misses. As a result, many Gen Z drivers may feel overwhelmed and anxious about the responsibility of driving safely while also managing their devices.

Here’s what to do if driving anxiety is holding you back:

  1. First, get comfortable in the driver’s seat. You might start by simply sitting in a parked car and breathing. Try sitting in the car for around 10 minutes, inhaling through your nose and exhaling out your mouth. You don’t have to move on to other steps until you’re ready.

  2. Plan your route. Knowing exactly where you’re going ahead of time can help take some of the guesswork out of driving. Can you choose a short, easy trip? If possible, plan a route that doesn’t involve changing lanes or merging. Review your route a few times on Google Maps (or your app of choice). Imagine how it might feel to make each turn. If possible, you could even consider walking your route before driving it.

  3. Go for a test drive (and don’t forget to breathe). Take a short, easy trip at a time of day that’s not very busy. If it would make you feel more comfortable, ask a supportive person to come along. You can also play calming music while you drive. And remember to take slow, deep breaths the whole way.

  4. Celebrate your progress. Feeling confident behind the wheel is a process — it doesn’t happen all at once. Take time to celebrate your wins. Even being able to sit in a car and breathe is an important step towards your ultimate goal.

  5. Consider coaching for support. If you’d like a guided experience to help manage driving anxiety, Wave is here to help. Your Wave coach can help you take small steps towards driving with confidence. They’ll partner with you to problem-solve any roadblocks and celebrate your wins.

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