A while back I wrote about how I want to get a GPS system and how I think it would be beneficial for all women to have one (men too, actually — yeah, maybe men need directions even more). Anyway, I have a new addition to what I’m calling the “women’s toolbox” that I think women need to have at their disposal — the ability to drive a stick-shift automobile.
I can’t imagine not being able to drive any car I wanted. Not being able jump into any vehicle and take to the open road. Having the ability to drive a manual transmission gives me those options. It also give me options in times of emergencies. What if my car was in the shop and the only one I could borrow was a stick?
I find, however, that there are many people in this world that can’t drive one. You’re not too old to learn.
The best way to learn is to buy one. That’s what I did. It was my second car. At the dealership I paid for the car, signed all the papers and was handed the keys. Now what? Crap! I had to drive it home. So, drive it home I did, jerking and stalling at every traffic light. My boyfriend at the time was driving behind me so I had some added “protection,” but I had to figure out how to get that sucker home on my own. The drive (punn intended) to get places is what gave me the will to learn how to operate this complicated vehicle. And, today, I am forever thankful. Not only is driving a stick important, it’s fun. It gives you a lot more power and control over your vehicle.
We recently got a new car and it’s an automatic and I’m not sure how I feel about it. Now, we have two automatic drives. I asked my husband if we would forget how to drive a stick. He was quick to say it’s like riding a bike. OK, I feel better.
Related:
- Women’s Toolbox Item #1: GPS
ABOUT ALICIA: Alicia is the founder of Balancing Motherhood.com. Last year, she managed to stay sane while completing an MBA, working full-time, blogging, and still baking amazing birthday cakes — all while raising a young family at home.
Miss Grace says
I can drive a stick and I completely agree with you.
My sister can’t, and since most of our family cars (we all live in the same town and hang out at my mom’s house A LOT) are manual, when my sister doesn’t have her car she can’t even borrow her husband’s car.
She refuses to learn though, because she tried when she was 17 and freaked out, and she’s stubborn that way.
Alicia at BalancingMotherhood.com says
My husband and trade cars all of the time too. If I couldn’t drive stick I would have been without a car many a’ time!
Sandy says
Here’s another tool every mom should use: http://www.nonprofitshoppingmall.com. Do ALL your online shopping here and become a philanthropist every time you shop.