Penny Mallory is one of the UK’s top female motivational speakers, drawing her experience from her years in Motorsport as a Rally Driver, and as a Performance Coach within various sectors. Penny is living proof that building Resilience and Mental Toughness are vital if you are to thrive in this world. Penny has worked inside and alongside many world class teams (including F1), and with individuals across many sectors, to improve team performance and results. As the only woman in the world to compete in a World Rally Car for the Ford Rally Team, achieving the impossible comes naturally to Penny whose accolades include being a mountaineer, boxer, marathon runner and descendant of the first person to scale Mount Everest; she is the ultimate Executive Life Performance Coach. If you are ready for change, it’s time to talk.
Where do you think your ‘MAGIC’ comes from? | Definitely my ‘magic’ comes from my upbringing and leaving home at 14, becoming super independent, resourceful and confident in my ability. Most people don’t like adversity but without set backs, how can you grow as a person? No adversity, no growth.
What do you think is often the difference between people who are good at what they do and people who are great at what they do? | In my experience people who are great at what they do focus on that thing – they don’t spread themselves out thinly, trying to balance everything, trying to achieve multiple tasks. They focus their time and energy on that one thing and wither sight firmly set, they remain determined and resilient to get there. It’s easy to be mediocre. It’s hard to be exceptional. There is a high price to pay for being at the top of your game, and most people don’t want to pay that price!
What do you believe are the characteristics, actions, habits and behaviours that you both have and use, that have helped you achieve what you have been able to achieve? | I have developed Mental Toughness over many years which means I can bounce back from setbacks, focus my aim on a goal and not give up until it’s reached. I am really determined, resilient and prepared to work really hard for what I want. Alongside all of that I have empathy and that’s an important aspect that is often forgotten.
What is your biggest weakness? | Apart from fish and chips, my biggest weakness is saying no to my children. I have probably spoilt them a bit too much, because I didn’t want them to go without, like I did. Having everything you need can affect a person’s motivation – it’s exciting toward hard for something… and get it.
On a psychological or mind-set level, how do you use your mind and how do you think in a specific way to help you achieve your goals and realize your ambitions? | I have always used visualisation from when I was young girl. I can see outcomes crystal clearly in my head, and I have always believed that’s been a big part in my success – I can see it, so I can get it!
How do you ensure you are always feeling energised and performing at your peak? | I run 5 miles every day to keep alert and sharp – the endorphins released when you exercise trigger positive feelings, and of course physical activity builds strength, stamina, discipline and resilience. You cant lose!
As a high performer have you ever had to struggle with happiness and contentment? | We all chase happiness and contentment but most forget that it’s an infinite journey. You never ‘get there’. The journey is what gives me happiness and contentment – I have had an incredible life full of ups and downs, and I wouldn’t change any of it!
What is the best advice you have ever received? | My mum once said “If in doubt do nothing” and I never forgot it. I remind myself of that advice when I am stuck making a decision. Somehow the answers tend to unfold, its almost as if the universe decides when give the chance. Mind you, I am not keen on ‘inaction’ either, which can be a very dangerous place!
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