Originally published 6/12/2025
I failed my driving road test today.
After 100 hours of practice (my husband definitely deserves an award for joining me on what we call my 100 Hour Quest), I failed because the instructor told me I double-parked, and I didn’t make a correction. It was the very last part of the test. And it stings like nothing else.
But I’m going to call the driving school tomorrow and book more lessons and the test again. Because one of my neurodivergent strengths is stubbornness. If I want something badly enough, I will get back up and try again. Of course, there’s a downside to this – there are times I should give up but don’t and end up getting hurt.
This is not one of those times.
I refuse to let one red X on a yellow sheet define me. I have told myself for years that I am NOT able to drive because I really wasn’t the first time I tried at 16.
I refuse to give into that voice in my head now that says I haven’t changed. I know that’s not true. I have worked like heck to retrain my brain, figure out how to deal with my executive functioning and visual-spatial challenges. My instructors say I’m ready.
So I’m letting myself lick my wounds today and tap into my creative side so that negative voice doesn’t get too loud. After all, most of my friends failed the first time – they have been an incredible source of support today.
To quote Elphaba, “Some things I cannot change. But till I try, I’ll never know.” Take it from someone who has failed too many times to count at different things. You need to be honest about whether you have a realistic chance and know your limits. And if you do have a realistic chance, you have two choices. You can either let the fear hold you back, or you can learn and adjust your approach.
Today I choose to defy gravity.
And I hope you also feel empowered to make that choice. Because “nobody…is ever gonna bring me down” – or you down – except ourselves.
Life Update: I got my driver’s license the day before my birthday in 2025.