Hello,

I was wondering if anyone had this particular driving phobia (with a twist?)

I generally enjoy driving, however, when I am out on the roads I continuously worry in case I'm somehow holding somebody up. I am generally a competent driver, generally able to drive at or slightly above the speed limit where safe, and I always keep to the 'slow' lane unless overtaking. However, whenever somebody is driving behind me, I worry in case I'm not driving fast enough for them or that I'm holding them up.

It even happens on busy roads - I was in heavy traffic and somebody was driving quite close to my bumper - I kept worrying in case I was somehow not close enough to the car in front, or was making the most of gaps in the traffic such as at roundabouts. When overtaking a slower vehicle I constantly worry in case the person behind thinks I'm not making use of overtaking opportunities.

I guess at the end of the day I'm seeking to avoid criticism at all costs, whether justifiable or not. I'd like to think I'm generally a competent driver (of course, with room for improvement) but I dislike the idea of being criticised for any reason. Incidentally, I have only been criticised by other drivers a few times, but the idea that I'm holding someone up or inconveniencing them is a real and persistent worry. I'd ideally like to shrug off any unjustified criticism that I receive - there are many inconsiderable and aggressive people out there right, and its impossible to please everyone?

Can anyone relate? If so, how would you suggest I challenge these fears?

Thanks,

Squibbles