Sim racing has taught me an invaluable lesson: it’s not about being the fastest over one lap (except in quali, of course), but rather maintaining consistency throughout the entire race. Similarly, in life, we often rush to outwork the process, forgetting that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Remember to pace yourself, stay consistent, steer clear of trouble, and embrace the journey.
There was a time in my career when I desperately felt the need to be the best engineer out there; one who delivers on time, never makes mistakes, and always stays in good books with my superiors. This was akin to being fast over one lap; it often led to a lot of tyre degradation, or at least in my life, it led to fatigue and constantly feeling like I am not good enough.
Eventually, I learnt how to pace myself, to do what I can when I can, to not overextend or underextend myself. Just like the ‘smooth operator,’ I have found myself with a bit more tyres at the end of the race, more happiness, a calm mind, and a gracious smile.
Don’t quote me wrong, speed is still vital, going the extra mile in whatever you do is still important, but always interlace periods of intense stimuli with periods of rest.