María de Villota is an example of how combining optimism and intelligence may be the best way to cope with rough times in life. Her tenacity, which helped her overcome barriers and grow in the overwhelmingly masculine world of Formula 1, also helped her survive for a year and a half after a tragic race car accident, one that eventually took her life. It is a benchmark of excellence, and her story reminds us of what is important in life, something that is so often forgotten in today’s society.