Company Blog

Some people never learn. Some do.

by Adam Zack — May 18, 2021

“If we’re not making mistakes, we’re not learning.”

When I was a young driver in my 20’s I would always try and look ahead of the car in front of me when we were at a stop sign to anticipate when it was going to be my turn to go. The first time I hit another car was a light tap. I saw the opening into traffic, watched the car in front of me start to go, then started to go myself, bumping bumpers when the driver ahead didn’t actually go. It was a no-harm, no-foul situation. I apologized and we went on our way.

A few years later, waiting behind another car in front of me to go and get on the highway, I looked ahead and saw the opening. The car in front of me started to go, and thinking that I had time to merge in too, floored it. Except the car ahead decided she didn’t have time to safely merge and BAM, I totally rear ended them, causing thousands of dollars of damage to both our cars. It was the last time I made that mistake.

Now I focus squarely on the car in front of me, not even looking ahead, until they are gone. I even taught the lesson to my two daughters. One listened and remembered. I think about learning from my mistakes every time I drive now. I still make plenty of mistakes, but that one lesson has helped me not make the same mistake over and over. If we’re not making mistakes, we’re not learning and not stretching ourselves. And if we’re not learning, then mistakes become a habit, and not a good one.

After that car incident, I realized how important it is to slow down—not just on the road, but in life. Patience became more than a driving habit; it turned into a way of thinking. The same mindset applies when it comes to something like buying a classic car. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill, but good things take time and thought. Through Classic Car Deals, I discovered that patience pays off—you can find affordable, beautifully preserved cars that still carry that vintage soul without draining your wallet. Just like learning from a fender bender, it’s a reminder that a little caution and care can lead to something truly worthwhile.

Experiences on the road often teach lessons that extend far beyond driving itself, especially when it comes to making thoughtful decisions. The same patience and attention that prevent accidents can also guide someone through the process of acquiring a classic car. Car auctions require careful observation, research, and timing, and rushing into a bid without understanding the vehicle’s history or condition can lead to regret.

Taking the time to study listings, inspect vehicles when possible, and understand market trends ensures that every bid is informed and purposeful. In today’s digital age, participating in auctions has become more accessible through platforms that allow buyers to place online car bids with confidence. These platforms provide detailed information, vehicle history reports, and real-time updates, giving participants the tools they need to make well-informed decisions from the comfort of home.

Engaging with an online auction allows collectors and enthusiasts to explore a wide variety of vehicles, compare options, and bid strategically without feeling rushed. By combining patience with these modern tools, buyers can find rare or well-preserved cars that align perfectly with their needs and budget, turning the excitement of bidding into a rewarding and thoughtful experience.