Don't Let Anger Behind the Wheel Drive You Out of This World

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Like alcohol, aggressive thinking and behavior often causes traffic tragedies.  The streets and highways lay claim to excess of 38,000 deaths annually. Over one hundred Americans die on the roads daily.   

Yelling, tailgating and hostile actions behind the wheel are simply life threatening. You can never tell how a confrontation will turn out. Think about it. A moment of rage can lead to a life of regret! As the saying goes; "better safe than sorry".  Road rage is the reason many people end up in trouble with the law and are mandated to take anger management treatment. 

Avoid hassles while arriving to your destination by staying calm and composed. Here is the GPS for safe and anger free driving:

1.  Expect problems on the road. Impolite drivers and careless motorist are the norm out there.Be emotionally prepared to cope with driving related problems. 

2.  Leave yourself extra time for the trip. Late? Being uptight about being late doesn't change anything except stresses you out.
 
3.  Even if others don't, follow all the rules of the road. Traffic laws exist to protect everyone.

4.  Have coping thoughts such as "He must be having a bad day, I will avoid him" or "stay calm: getting angry will not change a thing".  Poor coping is personalizing the mistakes of others.          

​5.  Courtesy and kindness lead to calmness and cooperation. Acts of kindness are known to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. By helping others you're helping yourself.

6..Forget about conflicts and disappointments. During the trip be mindful of your driving and focus on the road ahead. 

7. Avoid distractions of cell phones and other gadgets.
 
8. Stuck in traffic? Take long deep breaths and focus on sensations of these soothing breaths. Try deep breathing and see how your stress level will drop almost  immediately. 

9. Be grateful for any positive experiences. Enjoy the scenery or appreciate when          traffic is moving smoothly. Mindfulness of positive experiences will make the trip          more pleasant    

​10. Avoid drivers who act aggressive. Pull over and let the aggressive driver pass. Then calmly go on your way.

Follow these directions and arrive at your destination calm and composed. If you continue to get uptight while driving, contact us to discuss how you can make the changes  to stay calm each time you drive.