Taking the Wheel: Overcoming an Old Fear

Last August (2024), I was in Kolkata visiting my parents with my young one, who was 7 months old then. Being home with them gave me the perfect window to try something new, to learn a new skill, and I decided to learn to drive because, like Maths, driving scared me. So, I thought, it was time to take the bull by its horns.

That very first day turned out to be a game-changer. I came back brimming with emotions and poured my heart into writing this piece. It has been resting quietly in my drafts ever since, so today it is finally time for it to see the light of day.

August 2024, Kolkata

Today was a big day — I finally started learning to drive. This has been on my to-do list for almost ten years. Right after college, my dad encouraged me to learn, saying it would help me in the long run. But I kept brushing it off, convincing myself there would be plenty of time later. Deep down, I knew I wasn’t just procrastinating — I was afraid. Even after marriage, when my husband suggested it, I found new excuses. On the surface, it looked like I didn’t have the time; in truth, I was dodging an old fear.

That fear takes me back to 2004 or 2005, when I was trying to learn to ride a scooter with my brother. I was so excited — maybe a little too confident by the third day. I insisted on taking control, with my brother riding pillion. The moment I started the engine, I pressed the accelerator a bit too hard, and within seconds, the scooter went out of control. Luckily, it hit a mound of bricks, and we both escaped unhurt. But the incident left something behind — a deep, lingering fear of being behind the wheel.

Fast forward to 2024. After years of delay, I finally decided it was time to face it. I kept reminding myself, “If everyone else can learn, so can I.” For the past seven months, my world has revolved around my baby, who just turned seven months old. I’m endlessly grateful to my parents for their help — knowing she’s safe with them gave me the courage to take this step.

On Day 1, my instructor, Bablu Da, arrived in a Maruti Alto to pick me up. Another student was driving at that moment. At first, I thought the student was doing well, but as Bablu Da gave him a steady stream of instructions, punctuated by the occasional sigh, I assumed things weren’t quite as smooth as they looked. That made me even more nervous.

Then came my turn. I slid into the driver’s seat, hands trembling slightly as I held the steering wheel. It felt strange — and exciting. Bablu Da walked me through the basics: the car’s dimensions, the gears, the clutch, and the ABC (accelerator, brake, and Clutch). I drove a little around the lane, and even though he had most of the control, I could feel something shift inside me. Sitting there, steering even for a short stretch, felt incredible. It was liberating — a rare feeling in the rhythm of my daily routine. I was eager and was already looking forward to the next day.

As I walked back home later, I noticed a spring in my step. My mind raced back to my corporate life when I started working at HCL. I’d leave home at 8 AM and return at 10 PM, and life felt like it was slipping into a dull routine. Then, I started weekend yoga classes, and suddenly, the week felt more vibrant. I realised, sometimes, all you need is to do something different to bring back a spark.

Driving has done the same for me now. It’s brought back that spark. A reminder that stepping outside your comfort zone, or trying something new, can bring exciting experiences and awaken a part of you that’s been quietly waiting all along.

November 2025, Ranchi

Now that almost a year has passed, the big question is: Did I finally learn to drive?

Well, I took the classes for almost 15 to 20 days and grew confident that I could handle the wheels. But once I returned home, the practice may have slowed down, but the joy didn’t fade.

I still look for every small excuse to take the driver’s seat whenever I can. The excitement of driving — that mix of freedom and nervous thrill — still feels as fresh as it did on day one.

PS: This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

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