I often see this famous quote attributed to Ayrton Senna circulating online. The only caveat is that no records document him explicitly saying it. So it is a very impressive, picturesque fake. You can almost touch it, it feels so real and so much like Ayrton Senna, this amazingly spectacular driver.
But even if not real, this supposed quote from Senna captures a fundamental question about resilience and going through challenging circumstances. Should you strive to go through them and stay on course, or use these challenges as the platform for growth?
You might often feel like you're driving in the rain, forced to slow down, struggling to see the road ahead, and unable to progress as planned. But it’s precisely these tough conditions that can set the stage for your most significant advancements.
Wind extinguishes a candle and energises fire.
Nassim Nicholas Taleb calls the quality of improving as a result of shocks "antifragility." In his definition, resilience means resisting shocks and staying the same. I argue that true resilience goes beyond mere endurance. It is ability of the system to manage change and continue to develop, aligning closely with the concept of antifragility.
When you face challenges like losing a job, dealing with a difficult boss or colleague at work, you choose how you frame it. A resilient mindset emphasizes learning and growth opportunities. Instead of asking, "Why is this happening to me again?" you could say, "Thank goodness, I have another teacher on my path." Success in many fields depends on how you frame difficulties. It is particularly visible in fast paced areas, like sports. Ayrton Senna, Michael Jordan, Iga Switek seem to wait for those moments, becoming more energized and focused as challenges intensify.
In the end, whether Senna said it or not, the essence of the quote remains powerful: The toughest conditions often provide the greatest opportunities for overtaking. Embrace the rain, prepare diligently, lean on your support system, and keep your eyes on the road ahead.
Please don't follow though literally this advise on the road. it is dangerous, according to research cited by Daniel Kahneman 90% of people believe they are better than average drivers (I certainly believe I am much better than average), so I can imagine many of us believe that overtaking in the rain it is doable and within our capabilities.
Reflect
What is your typical reaction in the headwind? Are you energised or worried?
How do you frame challenges? Me again or this is my moment?
What was your most difficult challenge in professional live and how did it end?
Resources
Taleb, N. N. (2012). Antifragile: how to live in a world we don't understand (Vol. 3). London: Allen Lane.
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