12 suggestions to overcome standards check/Part 3 and driving test nerves!

Nearly all of us suffer from nerves, we wouldn't be human if we didn't! How can we overcome those pressurised testing situations? Here is a list of answers, that might help you on your standards check/Part 3 and maybe you could encourage your learners to use as well.

Practice, Practice, Practice! No secret and pretty obvious, rehearse as much as possible. As driving instructors we have loads of opportunity to practice our skill, although we may need a structure to practice against, our Route 51 course will help.

Think positive, when you feel those nerves creeping up on you. What will it feel like when you nail it? Use visualisation to mentally rehearse, only visualising the best techniques and the best results from your training techniques. Learners can find this exercise useful to program positive behaviours and correct actions prior to a test.

TOP TIP - I’ll BREATHE! Slow your breathing down, feed oxygen to your mind and body to assist relaxed concentration. Eat a banana about 1/2 an hour before. They are natural beta blockers, boost potassium levels and they are high in B vitamins which calm the nervous system. Remember to take care of yourself with a good night's sleep and good hydration.

Bash your gremlins up, listen to what they say and when you feel calm, tell them how wrong they are. Be courageous, turn up, show up and decide to give it your all, focus on what you can do.

​Use a mind map to put your strengths down on paper, you’ve worked hard to come this far, believe in yourself.

Start developing yourself because training breeds confidence and reassures you, you are doing something about what you’re worrying about.

Start your journey of improving your confidence; our courses can help you do just that, plus they will benefit your clients as well. Recognise nerves as an opportunity and a challenge to push your career in a forward direction.

Allow yourself time on the day to stay calm. Arrive early, park around the corner if you can’t use the car park, get out and have a stretch and use your breathing techniques or a mindfulness exercise to stay calm.

​If you want to know more on how we can help you please don't hesitate to contact us