Tips for beating car park rage
Certain situations can make even the most level-headed person lose the plot, potentially resulting in your very own YouTube moment of fame.For me, it’s golf – swearing becomes my raison d'être. For many however, it’s navigating the local shopping centre car park – white-lined hell. Especially during the Christmas period... A confined, limited capacity zone filled beyond capacity with seemingly time-poor drivers vying for the last spot on the planet.
So how do you survive in this world where patience and common courtesy have no place? Let us help. Here are five things to help you beat car park rage.
What would Enya do?
Music is a magical mood shifter and can work wonders in preventing a car park wobbly. In the same way you might choose Bohemian Rhapsody to awaken the senses, Enya will sedate them to the point of peak relaxation. Get yourself some Orinoco Flow in cabin, stat.
Laughing all the way
The benefits of laughter are scientifically documented (somewhere). Even fake laughter (we’ve all done it) relieves tension in the body and releases feel-good endorphins! And unlike your pending shopping trip (should you snag a park), laughter is free! [Note: if alone in the car you may look like a maniac].
The nose knows
The olfactory gods are here to help if you are prone to irrational motoring moments and car park meltdowns. The right aroma can boost energy, calm the mind and even coerce you to buy bad coffee… Make your car a zen haven with a calming aroma of lavender or bergamot.
Timing is everything
The nation’s lack of car parks hits five-million times harder when you’re running late. With time on your side, you’ll find inner strength you thought impossible in such dire circumstances. If you know you’re heading into the painted tarmac abyss, allow extra time. Plan ahead - an oldie but a goodie.
Perspective matters
Get a grip. You’re at the shops. This is not emergency department triage. Take a deep breath (of lavender) and give the car park tantrum the shade it deserves. And if you’ve got the kids in the car, simply shut up and suck it up. Their future behaviour behind the wheel will be modelled on yours. Lead by example.
Related: The etiquette of borrowing your friend’s car
Related: Car etiquette: The dos and just don’ts of back-seat burgers
Related: Pinpoint your parked car with PinDrive
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