March 3, 2023 - By: Brandon Jenkins

Jeep climbing rocks

Have you ever considered how driving a stick shift can make you a better decision-maker?

I certainly didn’t, until I switched back to driving a stick shift when I purchased my Jeep this summer.

Driving it is like practicing mindfulness, and here’s how that makes me a better decision-maker:

1. Focus:

  • Even after years of experience driving a stick shift, I still need to think about what I’m doing; especially in city driving.
  • When faced with critical tasks, focusing on the situation at hand and how to solve it are critical.

2. Situational Awareness:

  • I pay attention to my surroundings more carefully when driving a stick shift.
  • I’m always scanning the environment for any potential obstacles or hazards, like a car suddenly stopping in front of me.
  • This heightened awareness translates to better decision-making in other areas of life, where attention to detail and situational awareness are crucial.

3. Patience:

  • Driving a stick shift requires patience, especially in heavy traffic or on steep hills.
  • It’s easy to get frustrated and stall the car or make a mistake, but with practice, you learn to remain calm and focused.
  • This ability to stay patient and not rush decisions translates to other areas of life, such as work or personal relationships.

I never expected my Jeep to be such a great tool for personal development, but it has helped me be more mindful and a better decision-maker.

What about you?

Have you ever had an experience that unexpectedly helped you develop a valuable skill?

Do you have someone on your team helping you with these concepts? If not, please reach out to us at https://www.tieronelifeinsurance.com/contact/