Driving in the UK

Driving in the UK is an interesting experience. You will sit in what we know as the “shotgun” seat behind the wheel, using your left hand to shift. You will drive on the “other “ side of the road and every driving moment becomes an intentional, and (I might add), terrifying experience. When I was driving in Scotland, I enlisted the support of all passengers to help me “think” about what I was doing. It’s strange to assume that all others will obey this awkward set of new road rules, but for some reason, they do.

If you are American driving in the UK, you cannot let your “spine” do the driving. If you drive reflexively, you will most certainly put yourself in grave danger. Swerving to the shoulder with an American mind set would put you direct competition with oncoming traffic. Passing on the left is what people do. It’s a very emotionally draining exercise.

Check out this video: Driving in the UK

Same is true if you are an American pedestrian crossing the street. Why did the Brit cross the road? Because first he looked right, then left. In London, I nearly met my maker because I looked left first and did not see the bus coming.

Recovery and change is a lot like an American driving in the UK. You need to think very deliberately about what you are doing and entrust the support of others to help you think about what you are doing. In an instinctive moment, we may revert to old habits that could literally kill us. Over time, we get the hang of it, and it becomes a very enjoyable way to journey.

-John