These 5 steps are going to be different for almost everyone . . .
For me:
1. Commute to work in all kinds of condtions from homes to various jobs for 35 years.
2. Get a job at a warehouse in a "dangerous" neighborhood, with several similar "dangerous" neighborhoods on the route . . . drive a car taking everyone's advice not to ride through those neighborhoods.
3. Realize that I can ride to the Metro station and take the Metro train above these neighborhoods, then exit the station and ride a short way to work.
4. Buy a folding bike so I can easily and legally use the Metro at any time of day.
5. Live happily ever after riding my folding bike, taking the Metro and riding my folding bike.
Rick / OCRR