In truth it is universally acknowledged that all 16-year-olds are hoping to get their driver's license. They stay within a reasonable timeline and follow the steps to becoming another driver on the road. First, comes the learner's permit and studying road signs. Then, they take things a step further driving with a parent or an equally qualified individual to teach them how to be a good driver. And lastly, mastering the road test and achieving their dream. But we can't all be success stories, which is where I come in. I failed my driving test. It stung a lot a first, but with time I've been able to reflect on this as learning experience. And there are five important lessons I didn't see coming.
1. Everything Happens for a Reason
This is one of those cliched phrases but it's totally true. Now immediately post-driver's test, I certainly did not want to be responsible for this failure. Whenever, I discussed the test with my family or friends I made constant excuses like "There was bad traffic" or "The test instructor just didn't see my true capabilities." However, despite how I begrudged the instructor for it, she was doing her job. I was definitely not ready for a license; I was way too nervous and needed to work on my skills.
2. Preparation is Key
Just like any test, you will always perform better if you study. In this case, it never hurts to re-read passages in the driver's handbook or volunteer to drive to the store. Not to mention, practicing will boost your self-confidence. It gives you a chance to improve your weak points and ease your nerves.
3. People Learn at Different Paces
This may seem understandable, but it's frustrating when you fall behind the supposed "average." Post-driver's test, I'd be a liar if I said I didn't envy my twin sister, who took her test on the same day and passed. I kept thinking there must be something wrong with me; after all, 16-and 17-year-olds get their driver's license everyday. But in the end, it all depends on the person and how they overcome challenges.
4. Get Over your Pride and Conquer your Fears
The hardest lesson to learn by far. After failing my test, I took tons of time nursing my sore pride and completely procrastinated practicing to take my test again. Provided that after waiting four months, it finally clicked that avoiding my problems does nothing to help me solve them. In order to improve my driving skills, I re-read the driver's handbook, went on more drives with my parents and faced my ultimate fear of booking another test.
5. The Driver's Test Does Not Define You
In spite of how much pressure society puts on teens to get their license, whether or not you pass or fail the driver's test is not the most important thing about you. In retrospect even if I had passed, receiving a driver's license would certainly not be my biggest accomplishment. Therefore, I am determined to keep my chin up and I am reminded that you can learn a lot from failure.
