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by ocimbote 1093 days ago
I had my diving license in my mid-30s as well, but since I did it out of necessity, I tried and took the opportunity to appreciate the potential benefits, because it otherwise would have been way too dull.

I really enjoy driving now. The best decision I've made is to NOT own a car, since I can very easily rent and it makes a lot more sense on every single dimension (finance and operations). I drove a lot of different cars on various trips and every time I rent a new car, I feel like I treated myself with a shiny new toy and everyone seems to enjoy the moment a bit more.

My experience can't compare with a daily commute, of course, but the occasions I have to drive, it is mostly towards a nice outcome, so it's easier to appreciate.

Actually... I'm even training to obtain a motorbike license this year \o/

1 comments

Congrats to you on taking the hard decision to learn a practical, but let's be honest somewhat dangerous new skill later in life. I have a couple friends in their 30s who live in a rural area but do not drive and it's a real barrier to the enjoyment of their lives. They have been afraid to learn due to the inherent danger of it.

I do want to point out that learning to drive, but not driving regularly, can be a little dangerous. Unfortunately, like with any skill, a lot of driving ability/safety comes from a ton of practice. By not owning a car and only driving less frequently you are getting a lot less practice and in turn will be a less safe driver when you do drive. And constantly changing cars with different rentals all the time will only compound the unfamiliarity. Simply put someone with 100,000 miles of driving experience will tend to be a better driver than someone with 10,000 miles of driving experience. It's one of the reasons why a teenager, despite their excellent reflexes, is not necessarily a good driver (but also impulse control and other things from being young).

If the trade-off is worth it to you, that's cool. But you are what used to be called a "Sunday driver." My grandmother was one who learned later in life and then only drove very occasionally. It's a great life skill but you need to be extra careful. Experience does not come with age, but with miles.