Transportation is a vital part of daily life, influencing how we reach jobs, access services, and structure our routines. As a neurodivergent individual who doesn’t drive, I’ve often felt that my independence and mobility were limited or even judged by others. This article shares my personal journey with transportation and explores how Biketober, a month-long biking celebration, has reshaped my perspective. Through this experience, I’ve discovered empowering alternatives that not only enhance individual freedom but also contribute to our communities and the environment in positive ways.
My Personal Journey
Growing up (now recognising I’m neurodivergent), I often felt out of place in a world that prioritised speed, efficiency, and rigid routines that didn’t work for me. Learning to drive was particularly difficult, with sensory overload, anxiety, and constant pressure making each attempt overwhelming. I became hyper-aware of every detail, traffic lights, pedestrians, the movement of other cars, which quickly left me exhausted. Adding to the challenge was the societal expectation that everyone should drive. I felt judged and even ashamed for struggling with something my peers seemed to master effortlessly.
After three challenging years, I decided to ignore these pressures and focus on transportation methods that felt more accessible, like biking, walking, and public transit. These options brought me calm, let me avoid the stress of driving, and helped me connect with my surroundings in new ways. Embracing this choice was empowering, freeing me from external expectations and allowing me to build a routine that genuinely suited my needs.
The Impact of Biketober
My role as a social media intern with Biketober this year has been truly eye-opening. It’s given me the chance to engage with a community that’s deeply passionate about cycling and sustainable transport, offering a refreshing perspective in contrast to the societal focus on driving. The event’s mission, to promote biking as a healthy, eco-friendly alternative to driving, resonated with me, and I was excited to participate in the various events and activities throughout the month.
One key moment was learning from the team that a third of Aucklanders don’t drive, a statistic that made me realise how common biking and alternative transport are, despite what society often suggests. This realisation helped me challenge my own perceptions about car dependency and embrace biking as a practical, efficient option.
Through Biketober, I not only grew more comfortable with alternative transport, even deciding to buy an e-scooter, but I also discovered its mental health benefits—helping me reduce stress, clear my mind, and connect more deeply with my environment. The experience highlighted how choosing alternative transportation positively impacts both individual well-being and the planet.
The Benefits of Not Driving
Embracing a lifestyle without driving, especially over the past year, has brought many personal and environmental benefits. Physically, biking, scooting and walking have significantly boosted my fitness, offering enjoyable, low-impact ways to stay active. These forms of transport also help clear my mind, lowering stress and enhancing mental clarity.
Environmentally, choosing not to drive has reduced my carbon footprint and contributed to less traffic congestion. Cycling or walking instead of driving means I’m not only cutting down on emissions but also supporting a more livable urban environment.
Without a car, I’ve developed a new appreciation for my surroundings. I’m more attuned to the changing seasons, quiet streets, and the natural beauty I might have missed while driving, making my journeys as fulfilling as the destinations.
Words of Encouragement
If you feel pressured to drive or conform to societal expectations, consider exploring transportation options that align better with your values and well-being. Breaking from the norm can be daunting, but the benefits of biking, walking, or using public transport are well worth it – physically, mentally, and environmentally.
Whether it’s biking short distances, walking to nearby locations, or using public transport, each choice helps lower your carbon footprint and contributes to less traffic and a more sustainable future. When you choose alternatives to driving, you create a ripple effect, encouraging others and influencing healthier, more connected communities. Embrace the freedom to challenge the status quo!
Embracing non-driving options has been a transformative journey, especially as a neurodivergent individual. I’ve discovered that alternative transportation not only supports my mental well-being but also aligns with my values of sustainability. There are always better options that can cater to individual needs while benefiting the environment. I encourage everyone to challenge societal expectations and explore transportation alternatives that work for them, creating healthier, more mindful communities in the process.
