Threat versus Challenge

An exciting Formula 1 Turkish GP yesterday! Racing Point’s Lance Stroll magnificently snatched pole on Saturday, only to mess it up during the race. Of course his tyres graining almost straight out of pit lane didn't help but he seemed to crack under pressure, ending up P9. With 4 laps to go, Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas said he wished it was less. Can't say I blame him. With a total of at least 6 spins, being lapped by his teammate and a P14 result, maybe the prospect of Lewis snatching the championship (and becoming the most successful F1 driver in history) got the best of him on Sunday.

As I mention often: the brain can frame stress as a threat or a challenge. A threat perception leads to rigidity, impeding performance, while a challenge perception leads to resilience, allowing you to rise above and beyond expectations.

Speaking of resilience and rising above & beyond: Lewis Hamilton. I consider myself a relatively neutral Formula 1 fan but this man is such an example, both on and off the track. He’s been defying odds for decades. And to all who say ‘It’s only because he has the best car’, I’m going to let Lewis do the talking. Congrats to him, and to the team!