When it comes to overcoming driving anxiety, a gradual, structured approach is key. This is what I call succession progression—stepping up your challenges in a way that builds confidence and makes previously daunting tasks feel easier.
I’ve experienced this first-hand—not just as a coach but as a rider myself. My own journey on two wheels has mirrored the same principles I teach my clients. When I started riding again last year, I had a clear limit: I wanted to avoid faster single carriageways because I didn’t like the speed. I stuck to slower roads, but as I got more comfortable, I nudged myself onto short sections of these faster roads.
Then came the next level—facing a short stretch of a national speed limit dual carriageway. It wasn’t my ideal route, but circumstances led me there. To my surprise, after tackling it, I found that my previous anxiety about single carriageways had eased. I had levelled up, and what once felt overwhelming now felt manageable.
Recently, another challenge arose: I had to ride a long stretch of a national speed limit dual carriageway. This was a road I had deliberately avoided for so long. But I did it—and I felt amazing afterward! That rush of pride and accomplishment reinforced what I always tell my clients: stepping outside your comfort zone, even just a little, leads to lasting confidence gains.
But my biggest test was yet to come. During a lesson with my Institute of Advanced Motorcyclists observer, he casually mentioned that we might touch on a motorway—just for one junction. I went cold. That was my no-go zone, my absolute ‘not happening’ road. He gave me the option to skip it, but I knew deep down that if I let fear make the decision, I wouldn’t be practicing what I preach.
So, we went for it. I used my trusted techniques: the 5-4-3-2-1 method (counting down and committing), singing, and even chanting how excited I was to be doing it. And, as always, the anticipation was worse than the reality. After just 90 seconds, I started to settle, my speed steady between 50-60mph. Before I knew it, I had covered five miles, exited the motorway, and re-joined a national speed limit dual carriageway. And here’s the magic—after the motorway, that dual carriageway felt easy. I was up to 70mph effortlessly, something that had previously felt so intimidating.
This is succession progression in action. By pushing yourself to the next level, what once seemed unachievable suddenly becomes second nature. It’s all about gradual exposure, small wins, and stacking confidence.
So, whether you’re tackling a busy roundabout, driving on a dual carriageway for the first time, or preparing for your first motorway drive, remember: every level up makes the last one feel easier. Keep taking those steps forward—you’re stronger than you think!