Traffic jams: whether you're driving home from college, setting out on that nationwide road trip, or just heading downtown, everyone is bound to experience a few traffic jams this summer. If you're like me and constantly driving back and forth from your college-town and home-town, traffic jams are just a necessary evil that we've all probably grown accustomed to. They don't however, seem to ever get any less annoying, and they always seem to come in these seven steps.

1. Shock and Denial

You knew it was coming, but for whatever reason you always find yourself amazed at the hour-long stand-still line you're inevitably about to sit in.

2. Pain and Guilt

After the initial shock, it's normal to feel immense pain. There is absolutely nothing to do except wait it out, which feels unbearable. There is no end in sight. Your only companion is your brand new Spotify playlist, courtesy of finals procrastination.

3. Anger and Bargaining

Mom calls to check in, and , according to your tone, the huge traffic jam is all her fault. The guy in front of you, letting people into your lane? Yeah, he's Satan's very own spawn. The road-rage has obviously hit its maximum potential, and you'd give anything to just go faster than 10 mph.

4. Depression, Reflection and Loneliness

By now, you've already texted, "PLZ SEND HELP TO I-75" to every groupme who will listen, but no one cares. They're all out by the pool, working on their gorgeous tans while you're stuck with broken A/C on a 90-degree day. "Bad Day" by Daniel Powter plays through your speakers.

5. The Upward Turn

You still don't quite see the end, but the cars are moving a bit faster. Your best friend finally texts you back, "GIRL I KNOW. I-75 is NOT lit right now!" At least you're suffering together.

6. Reconstruction and Working Through

OK so things are moving along. The music is on full blast and the mental "To-Do" list is growing. First thing's first: apologize to mom for being late to dinner (and somehow blaming her for your late start in the first place).

7. Acceptance and Hope

It's finally over, and you're back up to 75+ mph speeds. You pray this will never happen to you again, but if it does, at least you've gained some coping strategies... right?

This summer and in life in general, traffic jams are bound to occur. Just tough it out, because it will all be OK in the end. Safe travels!