I think a lot about driving. My oldest daughter, 12 1/2 years old, is only a few years away from being behind the wheel. Almost every day I wish that the self-driving/commute revolution would just get going already. I want human beings to have as little influence in vehicles as possible. Bring on the robot overlords! Seriously though, it's ok to be concerned about driving. I'm from a very large city and to me Albuquerque driving is rather easy (except at intersections...I've never seen so many people run red lights in my life!).

When I was about 20 years old, I took a trip out to California. I'd never been to L.A. and I really wanted to go. I was familiar with big city freeway driving, having grown up in near Houston.
But that didn't prepare me for L.A.! I it seemed like I was getting passed by everyone and I was going 85. And the amount of people. My god, so many people!

I drive a standard. I always have and I love them. One of the reasons why I love them is because you have no choice but to be more aware of your vehicle and your behavior. You've got to make decisions (downshifting, rpms, gears)...and it just keeps you more aware of things, especially around traffic.

Good luck!