Facing My Fear: A Personal Victory Behind the Wheel
There’s a lot behind this photo.
It was the first time I ever drove a car by myself here in the U.S.
Earlier this week, I watched a video by April Lockhart (@aprillockheart), a disabled fashion influencer who shared that she’s learning to drive in her 30s. Her words stayed with me and brought up so many feelings. They reminded me of my own experience—the fear, the pressure, and the moment I decided to do it anyway.
Back in Brazil, I never had a car. I got my license in my late 20s, but driving always felt terrifying. I never felt confident behind the wheel. Over time, I started believing that driving wasn’t for me.
Then, I moved to the United States.
And here, everything is far. Driving is part of daily life. Without it, even the simplest things become complicated.
Still, it took me a long time to feel ready. I was scared. I had no one to lean on. But one day, I decided to try. I couldn’t wait for the fear to disappear—I had to show up and do it anyway.
I cried after I took this photo to send to my mom.
Tears of relief. Tears of joy.
Tears because I never thought I could say, “I drove today.”
It was just 15 minutes behind the wheel but meant the world to me.
Driving has changed my life in so many ways. And today, I’m deeply grateful for every small step, every shaky start, and every moment I didn’t give up.
There’s no age to learn something new.
And sometimes, the things that scare us the most are the ones that push us toward growth.
If you’re holding back on something because it feels too big or too hard, I hope this reminds you:
Small steps can take you far.
With love,
Ana
Ana Harris - Personal Stylist
Color Analysis - Wardrobe Styling
Studio in Fall River, MA - Serving clients from Rhode Island, Boston, and beyond.
