Isla Mackenzie’s said a career on the racing track shares many similarities to farming in that they are both more of a way of life than a straightforward job

When most people think of Formula 1, they picture roaring engines, high-speed glamour, and world-renowned athletes like Lewis Hamilton pushing the limits of what’s possible on the racetrack. Few would immediately draw a connection between the high-octane world of motorsport and the quiet, rugged life of farming in the Outer Hebrides. However, Isla Mackenzie, whose journey from a small Scottish farm to the fast-paced world of Formula 1 has been nothing short of extraordinary, is quick to point out that these two seemingly disparate worlds share far more in common than meets the eye—especially when it comes to mental health and the resilience required to thrive.

From Outer Hebrides Farm to Formula 1

Isla Mackenzie grew up surrounded by the wild beauty of the Outer Hebrides, where her family tended to sheep and cattle on the windswept land. Life on the farm was tough, demanding long hours of hard, physical labor and a deep understanding of nature’s rhythms. For Mackenzie, this upbringing wasn’t just a job but a way of life—one that taught her invaluable lessons about endurance, adaptability, and mental fortitude. Little did she know, those same qualities would later become essential as she embarked on a career in Formula 1, one of the most competitive and high-pressure environments in the world.

Image: “Formula One is a bit of a bubble, like farming. For me, getting out on the track is forever in my mind. Which is very much like a farmer who never stops thinking about their animals or crops.”

The transition from farming to motorsport may seem unusual, but for Mackenzie, the similarities are clear. “Farming is not just a career—it’s a lifestyle,” she explained in a recent interview. “You’re constantly thinking about your animals, the weather, and the land, and there’s no real separation between work and life. Formula 1 is much the same. It’s not a nine-to-five job; it’s a way of life that demands your full attention, whether you’re on the track or in the garage.”

The Mental Toll of High-Pressure Careers

Mackenzie’s comparison highlights an often-overlooked aspect of both professions: the mental strain that comes with the territory. Just as farmers face uncertainty over market prices, unpredictable weather, and the ever-present threat of isolation, Formula 1 drivers and their teams contend with enormous pressure to perform, constantly pushing the boundaries of physical and mental endurance.

Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula 1 World Champion and a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, has spoken candidly about the challenges he has faced throughout his career. Despite his global success and status as one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history, Hamilton has openly acknowledged the toll that the constant scrutiny, travel, and high-stakes competition have taken on his mental well-being.

“Mental health is so important,” Hamilton said in a recent interview. “In Formula 1, you’re constantly under pressure. You have to be at your best every time you get in the car. There’s no room for error. But we’re all human, and sometimes that pressure can get overwhelming.”

Hamilton’s advocacy has been instrumental in opening up conversations about mental health in the world of elite sports, and his words resonate strongly with Mackenzie. She believes that the mental health struggles faced by athletes like Hamilton mirror those faced by farmers—an industry where mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are widespread but often remain hidden beneath a stoic exterior.

The Silent Struggle in Farming

Farming, like motorsport, can be a lonely and stressful occupation. Farmers work long hours in isolation, often facing financial uncertainty, extreme weather conditions, and the constant pressure to maintain productivity. The emotional toll of such a demanding lifestyle can be immense, yet mental health in rural communities is still a taboo subject. Many farmers are reluctant to seek help, fearing the stigma attached to admitting they are struggling.

Mackenzie draws attention to this issue, advocating for greater awareness and support for mental health in the farming community. “Just like in Formula 1, there’s this expectation in farming that you have to be tough, that you can’t show weakness,” she said. “But that’s a dangerous mindset. Everyone struggles at times, and we need to be able to talk about it without feeling ashamed.”

Building Resilience: Lessons from the Farm and the Track

Both farming and Formula 1 require immense resilience, a quality Mackenzie has developed over the years. On the farm, she learned that not everything is within her control. You can plan and prepare, but in the end, nature has the final say. Similarly, in Formula 1, despite all the technology, strategy, and skill, there are factors beyond a driver’s control, whether it’s a mechanical failure or a change in weather conditions that can upend a race in seconds.

“Resilience is key in both farming and motorsport,” Mackenzie said. “You have to be able to bounce back from setbacks, whether that’s losing a crop or having a bad race. It’s about finding ways to keep going, even when things don’t go your way.”

A Shared Future of Awareness and Support

Isla Mackenzie’s journey from the fields of the Outer Hebrides to the fast lanes of Formula 1 is not only a testament to her determination but also a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health in all walks of life. Whether in the high-stress world of elite motorsport or the often-isolated life of farming, the mental demands are significant and should not be ignored.

As more athletes like Lewis Hamilton continue to advocate for mental health awareness, Mackenzie hopes that similar conversations will become more common in the farming community. “It’s so important for people in any industry, whether they’re athletes or farmers, to know that it’s okay to ask for help,” she said. “We need to make sure that support is available and that people feel comfortable reaching out when they need it.”

In a world where both farming and motorsport are often defined by their high stakes and relentless pace, Isla Mackenzie’s story serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a crucial part of success—both on the racetrack and in the fields. As she continues her incredible career, she remains committed to advocating for greater mental health support in both the sports and agricultural worlds, proving that no matter where you come from, resilience and self-care are the keys to thriving in any pursuit.