Highway Hypnosis
We’ve all done it: Let our minds wander off while driving only to discover that we’ve ‘suddenly’ arrived at our destination with no recollection of how we got there. Sound familiar? If so, then you’re not alone. It’s not uncommon to have short lapses in attention—we are only human after all! But if you routinely struggle to stay focused on the driving task, then it may be time to add some new tools to your driving toolkit. Here are 3 tips to help you stay focused behind the wheel:
- Challenge yourself
Psychologists have found that when a task is too easy, maintaining concentration becomes difficult because it’s not engaging or challenging enough. The same applies to driving. To improve your focus, set more advanced goals for yourself, like braking smoothly, accelerating gently, and anticipating changes in the driving environment. You can even go further by awarding yourself points for good driving moves and deducting points for mistakes.
2. Say (out loud) what you see
Commentary driving forces you to stay focused by saying out loud anything that affects your driving. For example, “Speed limit sign says 50 km/h, I need to slow down,” or “Cyclist on the shoulder, I’ll give extra space.” Verbalizing your observations and actions keeps your mind on the driving task and reduces the risk of distraction when things start to feel monotonous.
3. Take a deep breath
Before starting the engine, take a moment to sit quietly and breathe deeply, centering yourself and becoming aware of how you’re feeling. This simple practice can help you start your drive calmly and with focus. As you drive, notice when your mind starts to wander, and gently refocus on driving. Pay attention to what you see, hear, and feel—the road ahead, the sound of traffic, the feel of the steering wheel. Your daily commute can be an excellent opportunity to practice mindfulness.
