Originally posted by udet
I remember that I was concentrating too much on my instruments instead of looking outside.
Hey there Udet,
You're going to have a lot of things happen during training that will be frustrating. At first, it seems overwhelming to have to look outside, watch the instruments, and talk on the radio all at the same time with your instructor right next to you making you nervous. We've all been through it.
However, I think most will agree that there is a magical moment when everything just "clicks", and you start becoming comfortable and enjoying it rather than sweating bullets. When your instructor sees this moment occur, it's SOLO time very shortly thereafter!
My most memorable moment of all that has stuck with me to this day through all my training and ratings was the day I solo'd. I'll never forget it. My instructor and I were doing touch and go's, and he told me to stop the airplane. He got out and said "give me three touch and go's". All I said to him was "by myself?". He gave me a smile, a quick jab in the ribs, and said "yup", and away I went.
It was an intense rush of nervousness, euphoria, and pride all at the same time. That was 17 years ago, and I remember it like it was yesterday.