E211 - Fernando Alonso: 99% of the time you will not succeed

Fernando Alonso is a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, currently competing for the fast-rising Aston Martin F1 Team. Fernando has also driven for Alpine, McLaren, Ferrari, Minardi, and Renault, where he won the World Drivers' Championship in 2005 and 2006.

This episode explores what it takes to become an elite F1 driver, and how to maintain top level performance over a 20-year career.

Jake and Damian discover the origins of Fernando’s legendary racing career, dating back to his very first race at the age of three. They learn that despite Fernando’s unshakable self-confidence, he balances this with a unique awareness of his own limitations.

Alonso also gives insights to the transformation his two-year F1 hiatus had on him personally, deepening connections with his fans, and discovering an appreciation of the privileges of his position. He also opens up about his biggest regrets, and how he has dealt with failure since his championship winning years.

This conversation transcends the racetrack, offering lessons in determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

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**Fernando Alonso: A Journey Through High Performance**

Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula 1 World Champion, joins the High Performance podcast to discuss the mindset and strategies that have fueled his remarkable career. From his early days in karting to his current stint with Aston Martin F1, Alonso offers insights into the world of Formula 1 and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

**Key Points:**

1. **Early Influences:** Alonso's passion for racing began at the tender age of three, when he first got behind the wheel of a go-kart. His family, particularly his father, played a crucial role in nurturing his talent and providing him with the necessary support.

2. **Competitive Spirit:** Alonso's competitive nature was evident from an early age. He recalls feeling tense and nervous before a race, driven by the need to deliver and meet expectations. Over time, he developed a self-confidence that allowed him to thrive under pressure.

3. **Preparation and Technical Knowledge:** Alonso emphasizes the importance of meticulous preparation and technical understanding in Formula 1. He believes in knowing every detail about the strategy, tires, and the car's performance to instill confidence and reduce self-doubt.

4. **Handling Self-Doubt:** Alonso acknowledges that self-doubt is a natural part of any competitive endeavor. However, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's limitations and avoiding comparisons that can lead to insecurity. Instead, he focuses on what he can control and strives to be the best version of himself.

5. **Exploring Different Disciplines:** After leaving Formula 1 in 2018, Alonso embarked on a journey to explore other motorsport disciplines, including the Indy 500, 24-hour Le Mans, and the Dakar Rally. These experiences were not only rewarding but also humbling, as he had to learn new techniques and adapt to different driving styles.

6. **Maintaining Humility:** Alonso credits his family for instilling in him the value of humility. Despite his success and fame, he remains grounded and appreciates the simple things in life. He often returns to his family in Spain to reconnect with his roots and remind himself of the values that truly matter.

7. **Appreciating the Fans:** Alonso was surprised by the outpouring of love and support he received from fans after he retired from Formula 1. This made him realize the impact his career had on people and the genuine passion that exists for the sport.

8. **Formula 1 vs. Other Motorsport Disciplines:** Alonso observes that Formula 1 is more glamorous and selfish compared to other motorsport categories. However, he also acknowledges its appeal and the excitement it generates among fans.

**Conclusion:**

Fernando Alonso's journey in Formula 1 and beyond is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to overcome challenges, embrace new experiences, and stay grounded has made him one of the most respected and admired figures in the world of motorsport.

# Fernando Alonso: The Art of High Performance

## Introduction:

- Fernando Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, currently races for Aston Martin F1.
- This episode explores the journey of becoming an elite F1 driver and maintaining top-level performance over a 20-year career.
- Hosts Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes engage in a captivating conversation with Alonso, delving into his remarkable career and personal growth.

## The Genesis of a Racing Legend:

- Alonso's racing career began at the tender age of three, driven by an unshakable self-confidence.
- Despite his self-belief, Alonso recognizes the importance of acknowledging his limitations and continuously improving.

## The Transformative Power of a Two-Year Hiatus:

- Alonso's two-year break from Formula One had a profound impact on his personal and professional life.
- It deepened his connection with fans, fostered a greater appreciation for his privileges, and allowed him to reflect on his biggest regrets and failures.

## Lessons in Determination, Resilience, and Excellence:

- Alonso's story transcends the racetrack, offering valuable lessons in determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
- He emphasizes the significance of preparation, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

## Key Insights from the Conversation:

- **Embracing Failure as a Catalyst for Growth:** Alonso acknowledges that failure is an essential part of life and learning, emphasizing the importance of extracting lessons from setbacks.
- **The Importance of Enjoying the Journey:** Alonso reflects on his earlier focus on winning at all costs, recognizing the value of savoring the moments and celebrating achievements along the way.
- **The Art of Preparation:** Alonso highlights the meticulous preparation that goes into every race, ensuring that he has all the information and strategies necessary to optimize performance.
- **Finding Balance Between Emotion and Logic:** Alonso describes his approach to racing as a robotic execution of the plan, minimizing emotions to maximize efficiency.
- **Dealing with Disappointment:** Alonso acknowledges the pain of losing and emphasizes the need for self-respect, a clear plan, and a focus on improvement to overcome disappointment.
- **Planning for Success and Mitigating Risks:** Alonso emphasizes the importance of having a primary plan and a backup plan, allocating 80% of focus to executing the primary plan and 20% to mitigating potential risks.
- **The Unfulfilled Dream of a Third World Title:** While Alonso expresses a desire to win another world title, he acknowledges that it is not his highest priority, as he is more focused on enjoying the process and achieving success in other racing disciplines.

## Fernando Alonso's Golden Rule for High Performance:

- **Embrace Self-Confidence and Continuous Adaptation:** Alonso emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, thorough preparation, and the ability to adapt to change as essential elements for achieving high performance.

## Conclusion:

- Fernando Alonso's journey as a Formula One driver is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
- His insights into the art of high performance offer valuable lessons for individuals in all walks of life, inspiring them to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and strive for greatness.

# Fernando Alonso: The Art of High Performance in Formula One

In this episode, Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes delve into the remarkable career of Fernando Alonso, a two-time Formula One World Champion and a legend in the sport. They explore the secrets behind Alonso's success, his ability to maintain top-level performance over two decades, and the lessons he has learned along the way.

**The Making of a Champion:**
Alonso's racing journey began at the tender age of three, displaying an unwavering self-confidence that would become a hallmark of his career. Despite his self-belief, Alonso recognizes his limitations and constantly seeks ways to improve.

**The Transformative Hiatus:**
Alonso's two-year hiatus from Formula One proved to be a transformative experience. It allowed him to reconnect with his fans, appreciate the privileges of his position, and gain a new perspective on success and failure.

**Redefining Success:**
Alonso challenges the conventional definition of success, arguing that it is not solely about winning championships. He emphasizes the importance of savoring each moment, enjoying the journey, and living life to the fullest.

**The Value of Preparation:**
Alonso stresses the significance of meticulous preparation, highlighting the need for a Plan B and Plan C to adapt to unforeseen circumstances during a race. He emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

**The Art of Dealing with Failure:**
Alonso candidly discusses his biggest regrets and how he has dealt with failure throughout his career. He acknowledges that failure is a part of the journey and that it is essential to learn from mistakes and move forward.

**Fernando Alonso's Legacy:**
Alonso's career transcends the racetrack, offering valuable lessons in determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His ability to reinvent himself and adapt to changing circumstances serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals in all walks of life.

Overall, this episode provides an intimate look into the mind of a Formula One legend, offering insights into the mindset, strategies, and experiences that have shaped Fernando Alonso's extraordinary career. It is a compelling narrative that highlights the importance of preparation, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in achieving high performance.