Niki Lauda passed away last week. If you don’t follow Formula One racing, and I’m guessing many of you may not, chances are you hadn’t heard about this. It’s possible that many people don’t even know who he is. Well, let me tell you why he was so important to Formula One, what he represented, and the type of person he was.
Niki Lauda’s Formula 1 History
As I mentioned, he was very well respected in the racing world. Partially for his talent and skill (as he won 3 world championship titles in the 70’s and 80’s), but moreover for the person that he was. Many people admired Niki for his drive, his dedication, and his commitment. The most shocking moment of his career came in 1976 with a near death experience during the German Grand Prix. Niki Lauda was given his last rights, but miraculously, 6 weeks later, to everyone’s surprise, he returned to racing. He was a fighter through and through, and he showed everyone just what was possible.
There was a movie made in 2013, Rush, which tells this exact story. It’s an incredible movie, and you should definitely watch it if you haven’t seen it yet. Also, if you need extra motivation, Chris Hemsworth plays opposite Daniel Bruhl (Niki Lauda) in the movie. Major eye candy – yes, please!
When someone passes away, it’s common to reflect on the person that they were. To remember what you admire about them. This is no exception. For the past 7 years, Niki had been a part of the Mercedes racing team. He was present at every race and meeting until several months ago when he became ill and had to undergo a double lung transplant. Last weekend, going into one of the most iconic races on the schedule (Monaco), the Mercedes team did their best to keep going and honor their friend.
The lesson he taught me
I came across a quote from Niki that made me really think. He said “A lot of people criticize Formula 1 as an unnecessary risk. But what would life be like if we only did what is necessary?” Think about that for a second. What if you ONLY did what was necessary in life? Followed the rules? Didn’t treat yourself, or do anything special? How would you feel? What would that life look like?
The truth is, many of us are living this exact life without even realizing. We’re getting by, doing what is required of us, and nothing more. We’re not doing anything to fill ourselves up; to grow, to really live. It shouldn’t take the death of someone to remind us that life is short, that we’re promised nothing. We only have this one life. What do you have to lose? Do more. Try more. Be more.
