I've been thinking about my driving (and even my walking) habits lately, and I'm wondering if there's a psychological explanation for them. I'm not trying to justify speeding because I know it's irresponsible. I'm just trying to understand why it happens, because I don't think it comes from a lack of responsibility or an ego thing like most of my colleagues say.
I'm a part time professional driver or a chauffeur as some would call it. Whenever I'm on a clear regional road, I naturally end up around 10-20 km/h over the limit, and on highways I'll usually sit about 20-40 km/h over if the passing lane is open. I also hate having a car directly in front of me. If someone's doing the speed limit, I almost feel compelled to overtake them so I can get back to my own pace. I feel like they are slowing me down. The weird part is, if someone's already driving at the same speed as me or higher, I have no urge to pass or chase them. I don't care about being the fastest car on the road, I just feel the urge to maintain a certain pace.
It's almost like my brain gets tired if I'm stuck behind slower traffic for too long. I actually start feeling sleepy or less focused. On the other hand, I have no issue sticking to the speed limit in school zones or residential areas because somehow there I actually become conscious that my actions could hurt someone. It's mainly the long, open roads where I feel this constant need to go faster.
I've noticed I do the exact same thing when I'm walking. If people are walking slower than my natural pace, I'll instinctively weave through gaps or go around them just to keep moving at the speed that feels comfortable.
Has anyone else experienced this? Is it possible that it could be a psychological thing rather than just a bad habit and could it likely require professional help?
NB: I am not encouraging speeding or justifying it, just looking for maybe a reason as to why it happens. Also, my apologies if this is the wrong sub or flair.