This past weekend, I received an email from my ParkMobile app reminding me that finding parking for an event downtown can be stressful. It got me thinking where there is stress, there must be an opportunity to practice resilience.
We all have stories about ourselves as drivers. Growing up in New York City, I learned formal driving skills from my parents, but the actual rules of the road came from the bustling streets and the aggressive yet skilled drivers around me. In New York, you must be assertive to navigate traffic, merge effectively, and seize a parking spot when you find one.
One memorable incident involved me searching for a parking spot, only to have someone swoop in and take it just as I was about to parallel park. Back then, road rage was less dangerous, but it still led to a heated moment and a quick flip of the bird. However, this experience taught me an essential lesson about controlling my reactions and finding a better way to handle such frustrations.
Over the years, I developed a strategy to ensure I reached my destination efficiently while maintaining calm. The key? Being kind to other drivers.
Here’s how I do it:
- When merging into traffic, I roll down my window, make eye contact with the driver, and politely ask, “May I get in?” It works every time.
- When someone wants to merge into my lane, I flash my lights to signal they can proceed.
- One day, in a crowded parking lot, someone took a spot right before I could pull in. Instead of getting angry, I flashed them an “OK” sign and found another place without fuss.
These small acts of kindness and patience have cultivated “parking karma.” Whenever I go to an event or shop in a crowded area, I almost always find a parking spot, usually a convenient one.
This approach doesn’t mean I let people take advantage of me. My New York driving background has given me confidence that helps me easily navigate traffic. However, being considerate and patient reduces my stress and contributes to a more pleasant driving environment for everyone.
So, the next time you find yourself in a stressful situation, whether on the road or elsewhere, remember that kindness and patience can go a long way. It’s not just about finding a parking spot; it’s about finding resilience in everyday moments.
© Richard Citrin 2024
