Is your upcoming business meeting making you anxious? We all know that some business meetings make participants feel stressed and nervous. Some people don’t get enough sleep because they keep worrying about how things are going to work out or if their presentation is perfect. The bad news is that stressing over something you can’t control can have negative effects on your health and body. It can affect concentration which can be a bad thing especially if you’re driving there. The good news is that there are things you can do so that you can arrive safely at your meeting. Consider these tips next time you have to drive to an important meeting.
Use Headphones
Talking on the phone or texting while driving, are some of the most common causes of traffic accidents in the United States. These activities require the driver to use only one hand and for their attention to be divided between the street and their phone screen. This combination together with lack of concentration can cause accidents on the way to your business meeting. To avoid this, use technology that can free your hands so that you can at least keep both hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road.
Designated Driver
If you’re going to be preparing on the way to the meeting, it’s best if you have a designated driver. It can be a co-worker, team member or neighbor you can carpool with. Having a designated driver has the same benefits when you’re out drinking with your buddies. You can immerse yourself in work without having to worry about negotiating traffic or looking for a parking space. Having a designated driver is a good idea if it’s a long commute or if you need more time to prepare.
Check Car
Being prompt is a good way to leave a good impression. To avoid breakdowns, check your car before you go. Check if you have all the necessary tools needed, tire pressure and if the spare is good to go. Car maintenance can also impact your safety. To ensure that you are driving a safe car, it is best to practice preventive maintenance. Not only will this prevent you from breaking down but also ensure that you arrive to work safely and on time even if you don’t have a business meeting.
Sleep Early to Arrive Early
If you want to arrive safely, sleep early. Getting enough rest before the big day is one of the best ways to ensure that you are relaxed and calm. Don’t drink too much coffee too. Caffeine will wake you up, but will make you jittery and more anxious. Sleeping early will also allow you to get up early and go to the meeting early so that you can avoid the rush hour and prepare early for your meeting.
Take Uber/Public Transport
Taking Uber or public transport to work is a good idea to arrive to work early. Firstly you don’t have to drive and can concentrate on mentally preparing for the meeting. Secondly, sharing a ride with other people can be a good distraction, especially if you’re nervous. Taking Uber is also like having a designated driver. As a bonus, you don’t have to worry about parking.
Cars have improved thanks to technology. We can now arrive safely to business meetings thanks to advancements like bluetooth, GPS, seat belts and airbags. However, driver education and concentration is still important. Until we perfect the technology for self-driving cars, keep your eyes on the road and concentrate on driving to arrive safely to your business meeting.
