As a driver trainer, I’ve noticed two things that we should all try to leave behind when we get behind the wheel: Our natural human competitiveness and our impatience.

1. Why Competitiveness Doesn’t Belong on the Road

Competition is great in sports or the workplace, but it has no place on the road. That inner drive to “win” by overtaking or tailgating serves no real purpose. In fact, driving aggressively:

– Won’t get us to our destination any faster.

– Puts everyone, including ourselves, at unnecessary risk.

The goal should always be to arrive safely. Let’s leave the idea of “being first” at home and focus on being courteous and aware on the road.

2. Impatience is a Dangerous Passenger

We all know how frustrating roadworks, traffic jams, or slow drivers can be. And when we’re running late, it’s easy to feel our impatience building. But driving under pressure can lead to risky behaviour, like rushing through intersections or aggressive overtaking.

Before you get in the car, take a moment to breathe, relax, and let go of the stress. In other words, “take a chill pill” and enjoy the journey—it’s better to arrive a little late than not at all.

3. Show Some Love to Learner Drivers

What about those drivers with “L” plates? We’ve all seen them and probably felt frustrated at their cautious driving. But remember this: we were all learners once.

The best thing we can do is offer them patience and encouragement. Tailgating, honking, or dangerous overtaking only adds to their stress and puts everyone at risk.

Instead:

– Give learners extra space.

– Approach with kindness—your patience can make all the difference in their learning experience.

Driving is about getting to your destination safely—not about being the fastest or the most aggressive. If we all leave competition and impatience at home, we’ll have safer, more enjoyable journeys. And when it comes to new drivers, a little kindness goes a long way.