Anger Management Strategies for Professional and Beginning Drivers


The Don’t Drive Angry Project originated in Southern California and was inspired by ideal weather, scenic roads, and a renowned car culture. However, crowded road conditions and other life stressors can dampen the enjoyment of driving. The Don't Drive Angry Project is dedicated to promoting safer and more enjoyable driving for drivers of all ages and experience levels by teaching emotional management strategies specifically tailored for driving. Contact us to learn more.
Anger is a natural response to certain situations, so recognizing and addressing it is especially relevant to supporting driver safety and enjoyment. Anger stems from how we think and typically arises when goals are blocked. When things do not go according to plan anger can be effectively managed by adjusting goals and reconciling expectations. By understanding how anger works and applying appropriate emotional management strategies, drivers can learn to control their anger effectively.
A good first step toward taking controlling of anger involves recognizing physiological changes associated with anger and acknowledging them. Our driver workshops can provide essential emotional management strategies to help address these feelings effectively.
When possible, separating from an anger-provoking trigger for even a brief time can help drivers implement effective emotional management strategies. This is particularly useful for drivers because it provides an opportunity to gain a fresh perspective on a situation.
People may not be aware that their thinking is linked to anger, which makes learning anger management strategies for drivers particularly crucial. Our workshops can help drivers identify thoughts that contribute to anger.
In some cases, there is an obvious practical approach to alleviate anger. However, it many instances emotionally-based management strategies are the only option. Therefore, it is important to know when to apply the appropriate strategy.
It may not always be possible to escape anger-provoking situations. Therefore, it is essential to address anger at the source by adopting new ways of thinking about certain situations. Our workshops can help drivers discover new perspectives on things.
A cognitive script is a way of thinking that promotes emotions and behavior. Don't keep anger active by ruminating on the scripts that have contributed to angry feelings. Instead, put anger in the rear view mirror by replacing old scripts with new ways of thinking.

Dr. Oakley has combined a passion for driving with a background in psychology to develop a comprehensive approach to anger management for drivers. Whether you are a seasoned driving enthusiast looking to enhance your driving mentality or someone weary of the emotional drain that often arises during your daily commute, learning simple emotional management strategies can serve as a foundational step toward a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.

Even the most experienced drivers can be negatively impacted by stressful driving conditions. The Don't Drive Angry Project workshop utilizes the insights and methodology from the Just Furious book to offer interactive driver workshops. These sessions equip professional and experienced drivers with emotional management strategies to effectively cope under challenging driving conditions.

Learning to drive is an ideal opportunity to start developing a broader range of emotional management strategies. The anger management for beginning drivers workshop enhances traditional driver education by equipping new drivers with tools to manage their emotions in challenging driving situations. These anger management techniques can also be applied to help individuals navigate various life challenges.
NOTICE: This is not a therapeutic intervention for mental health problems. People with mental health needs should seek appropriate mental health services and/or call emergency services if necessary.
The content of this website is based on the book Just Furious: A Rational Guide To Managing Driving-Related Anger (Copyright 2016, 2020).
The reproduction of website content is prohibited without prior written approval.
For inquiries about anger management for drivers and our driver workshops, please reach out to us at DontDriveAngryProject@gmail.com.