Most of us think were pretty good behind the wheel.
Whether thats true or not, theres always room to improve.
This is another area where we all believe were better than we are.
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Then, focus on how balletically your hands move as you steer, rather than how quickly.
Quick motions are almost always jerky.
Slow is smooth and smooth is fast.
You essentially want to rotate your car, rather than just turn it.
Hang Back
We almost all tend to get too close to the car in front of us.
At a stop light, you should always be able tosee the undercarriageof the car ahead.
Theyre your whole world when on the road, so keep them happy.
you should probably hear the traffic around you and stay attuned to your environment.
A good stop is a calm, gentle cessation of movement.
To do both, learn the heel-toe.
Get out in a parking lot like you did when you were a kid and practice thisbraking/downshifting style.
Its howThe Stigdoes it, and itll shear time off any drive by making every corner a masterpiece.
Youll be able to react more quickly if you see something sooner.
You should shift your eyes while driving, butnot your body.
The less you move, the more relaxed and prepared you are.
Minimize motion, which also helps you stay smoother.
One at a Time
Your car isnt any better at multi-tasking than you are.
Dont give a shot to make it.
When stopping, stop.
When turning, turn.
When accelerating, accelerate.
This softness is another example of smoothness that will enhance your wheeltime.
Set a Focus Trigger
Highway hypnosis happens to all of us, often every single day.
Setting up areminder to focusand a phrase to help you stay in the moment facilitates superior driving.
Whenever you stop, teach yourself to refocus on the moment.
Say something like Im here now to snap your mind back in line.
Good driving is about your mind as much as your machine.
you might get through life ignoring your spouse, butlisten to your car.
Do you feel all your organs trying to jump out your side?
Turn smoother and work on that heel-toe motion.
Practice Proper Braking
The brakes on modern cars are better than the people operating them.
You should still learn to work them properly, but the margin for error is ever shrinking.
Dont Panic
Easier said than done.
The fewer emotions you have while you drive, the better youre going to be.
If youre angry at other drivers, youre worse on the stick.
If youre terrified of something happening, youre worse.