I want to talk about those long finger, dangle berry resolutions/goals/aspirations. Yes those ones that year in, year out, land once again on your things to do/achieve in the new year. Each year passes… they remain undone; like a nasty bin that needs changed, the stank of their incompletion wafts up to sting the nostrils. Taking up space in our heads burrowing in… making us feel, well, not good.
This year I start yet again!, on the well-worn, thread bear path of getting my driving license. Oh for shame 🙈 I always shake my fists at this goal! It is my ultimate nemesis. I decided to delve into why(oh why!) it is I just can’t seem to get it together on this particular thing. Ultimately it boils down to a fear of failing, and persevering through being a sucky driver for a while. It’s uncomfortable, I like feeling comfortable!
Another reason being the negative narrative I have attached to driving. Every year I add another layer to this shit sandwich. I tell myself the following; I don’t need it, I don’t like it, cars are expensive, lessons are expensive, the instructor was an asshole, people are pushing me to do this, I can’t afford it, I could spend my money on something more fun….sound familiar??? Yup you can pretty much apply those excuses to a large number of things. Year in, year out I gave into that narrative, and didn’t bother or gave up. Thing is, I do want to drive, I’ve just mind fucked myself into thinking I don’t. It wouldn’t be going on my list if I didn’t care.
This year I’m working on changing my narrative towards it, to a happy positive one. If you read my post ‘Festive Season’ I have one attached to Christmas, I want to try out this method on my driving. I went and wrote down all the good things that will add to my life by being able to drive, plus the opportunities that can/will arise from having this skill. Already I am feeling calmer and more equipped mentally to tackle this once and for all. I even started using visualization; me being happy in a car, smiling my chops off, singing my little lungs out! I’m starting to reframe this nemesis to my advantage, dropping that self sabotage. I’ve applied for my test and renewal of learner permit, STEP ONE TICK! I’m doing the do as it were.
Take a look, see if you have anything similar on your list, ask yourself do you really want this thing for yourself? Then work on the reframe if you do, if you don’t? let it go. Once you decide to change a narrative it’s amazing how naturally it happens. Don’t let the negative take hold. Go ask questions about the task at hand, to people who you know have recently gone through, or are currently going through what you want to undertake. I love hearing other’s why’s, struggles and successes, it really inspires me to go on and take the leap too. Forge the courage to take the first step, and keep moving one foot forward at a time.
I believe I can drive, think about it every night and day, spread my wings and hill start away 😂🎺
A journey of self help and love 
Ruth, I did not learn to drive until I was 49. I was utterly terrified and but for a fabulous pal Lesley, am sure I would not be driving today. Go for it, it is the most freeing experience. Maud xx
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Awh Thanks Maudie! I am slightly terrified also, major deer in the headlights haha, but looking forward to the freedom and independence it will bring. I remember the story of the ice driving you had to endure, quite the tale! xxx
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