Driving in Amsterdam is not for the faint of heart. Between the trams, buses, bikes, mopeds, pedestrians, road signs everywhere, and the occasional child or dog darting across the street, it’s a masterclass in staying calm under pressure.
Yesterday, I took my Netherlands driver’s license lesson with an instructor, and let’s just say it was an emotional rollercoaster (with a lot of in the moment feedback!).
Here’s how I managed to keep my cool and what it taught me about Mastering Emotions in high-pressure situations.
Breathe, Even When You Want to Scream
When a tram suddenly appeared out of nowhere, my first instinct was to panic (ok, not so much panic, more cursing). But I took a deep breath, listened to my instructor’s calm guidance, and adjusted. It reminded me that emotions are like traffic they come and go. The key is not to let them take the wheel.
Feedback is Your Friend, Not Your Enemy
My instructor didn’t hold back with his feedback. At first, it felt overwhelming, but I reminded myself: feedback is just data. It’s not personal; it’s there to help you improve. I asked questions, clarified, and adjusted my driving in real-time.
Small Adjustments Lead to Big Results
Instead of trying to “fix” everything at once, I focused on small, manageable adjustments. A little less pressure on the gas, a smoother turn, a quicker check of the mirrors. Those tiny tweaks made all the difference.
Laugh at the Chaos
When a cyclist cut me off (because its Amsterdam and they do not follow the rules), I could’ve gotten frustrated. Instead, I laughed. Humor is a powerful tool to diffuse tension and keep things in perspective.
This experience was a great reminder that mastering emotions isn’t about being perfect; it’s about staying present, adaptable, and open to learning.
Whether you’re navigating Amsterdam’s streets or life’s challenges, small shifts in how you manage your emotions can lead to big wins.
If you’re ready to master your emotions and thrive in high-pressure situations, check out my latest coaching package: Master Your Emotions
Let’s navigate life’s chaos together—one deep breath at a time.
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