5 Success Lessons From Formula One

The era of Michael Schumacher, the seven times world champion of formula one racing, is finally coming to an end. He is regarded as one of the most successful drivers of all time. What are the secrets of his success?

On Sunday, 10th September 2006, I left my house for a walk just as the Formula One race at Monza was beginning. Schumacher was one of the favourites to win.

I wanted to watch the race but had to put exercise first. When you weigh too much, you cannot afford to miss your exercise! In fact even if you don't weigh too much, exercise should be a priority.

We are told by the health experts that exercise is good for both the body and the mind and may even prevent diseases like Alzheimer's. Rejoice if you have a staircase at home. Walking upstairs frequently is a very effective form of exercise.

One of the secrets of Michael Schumacher's success is his fitness. Racing drivers need to be very, very fit.

When I arrived home, the race was finishing with Michael Schumacher in the lead.

As expected, Michael won the race and then announced his retirement from Formula One. One probable reason for his retirement is that he feels that he cannot give his racing career the time and effort it demands.

His priority may now be his family and other key aspects of his life.

He has made motor racing his priority for the last thirty years and Formula One has been his priority for the last fifteen years. This must be one of the main reasons for his success. A Jack of all trades is master of none.

Jenson Button, a thoughtful British driver, believes that Schumacher is as good as ever, but believes he has reached a point in his life when racing cars is no longer a priority:

"I don't think he is on the wane. There comes a time when you need more in your life. Formula One can't be your whole life."

Murray Walker, the great commentator, pinpointed another secret to his success as being his 'massive application' to every aspect of his craft. Working hard at our skills and knowledge can make us into very valuable and well-paid people.

Michael now owns several houses in pleasant locations and will be able to give his family a rich and varied life. His annual income of about 30 million dollars should mean that he will never need to work again.

Michael also believes in teamwork and his first action after his triumphant win was to walk over to his mechanics and other team members to give them a hug and words of appreciation.

A formula one driver cannot be a champion without a great car and a great team of people to service and maintain it. He also needs the help of expert strategists like Ross Braun, the master mind behind many of his victories.

There were tears in the Ferrari garage as they contemplated the end of Schumacher's racing career but not every one in motor sport was tearful. As you might expect, the rivals of Ferrari were not shedding any tears at his departure!

The head of the Renault opposition - Flavio Briatore - was asked how much he would miss Schumacher. His reply was brief and to the point:

“I won’t miss him at all!”

Recently, on a website dedicated to persuading Schumacher to stay, a dissenting voice managed to escape the censors:

"Go now, and take that useless brother with you."

Schumacher has several enemies but few can deny his talent and, possibly, genius. Martin Brundle was his racing team mate for several years:

"I am in awe of his driving skill He still has his speed and fitness but it is better to stop a year too early than a year too late. He is a good all rounder and one of the greats of all time."

What lessons can we learn from Michael Schumacher's Formula One career?

Decide on your priorities and stick to them until you succeed and feel ready to move on to other things.

Work very hard at developing all the skills, including fitness, which are necessary to achieve excellence in your chosen career. It helps if you choose a career you have talent for. Sometimes, however, hard work can create talent where it did not appear to exist before.

Recognize the importance of teamwork and show your appreciation of the people that support you in your career.

Ignore the comments and lack of respect shown you by rivals or enemies and, if you can't ignore them, at least don't let them discourage you from pursuing your chosen course.

Retire when you are at the top of your game.