Roger Federer is known for his calm under pressure. And yet you would be surprised how many times he has smashed a racquet.
When he was a young tennis player, Federer would allow his frustration to take control and was known for his uncontrollable temper. He has since developed into a player that is widely respected for his grace on the court, such that his mental performance may be more impressive than his physical feats.
Today, you wouldn’t associate him with outbursts. But they happen. There are many examples of him losing control of his frustrations, and watching them seems so out of character. And yet because they are the exception and not the rule, when they do happen the crowd has risen to support him.
Missteps are an inevitable part of life, and this is what makes for a strong reputation. It’s not that you will always act a certain way. It is that you are always dealing with these things that make us human, and choosing to perform as best you can amidst these challenges.