Your Thoughts Drive Your Actions

Behind the Wheel and Beyond....

I often drive through a neighborhood known for its family-centric values and tight-knit community, to which something always catches my eye.

Despite the neighborhood advertising promoting family, work, and play all within reach, the atmosphere on the roads are far from implementing these values.

Speeding cars, tailgating, and a lack of patience paints a stark contrast to the neighborhood's marketing. Then just down the road in an area similar with family, wellbeing, and connections at its core, a tragedy occurred. A senior, months from graduating, decided to street race. Sadly, it ended not just in a crash but burns to which he died a day later. A harsh reminder of the consequences of our driving attitudes going against our values.

Your beliefs and attitudes behind the wheel often mirror your inner state. While last month's article touched on the overwhelm of daily tasks, it's crucial to recognize how stress and lack of sleep can dissolve patience, focus, and sound decision-making.

Taking a moment to audit our schedules not only creates space in your day but also allows you to “lock in” during your drive time.

Remember your last ticket? What led up to it? How were you feeling, thinking, or reacting? Reflecting on these questions can offer valuable insights into your driving behaviors and the underlying expectations guiding them.

Let's lead by example on the road and in our lives. Have that hard conversation with yourself and those in your household about how you can meet your needs but in a safe and less risky way.