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I'm not always so relaxed - Button

Jenson Button: "I definitely have days when I'm an arse" © Getty Images

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Jenson Button admits that is not always as relaxed and assured as he appears, saying that he can be "an arse" away from the track.

While off-track issues appeared to hamper Lewis Hamilton's on-track performances last season, Button appeared calm and in control at all times. It was a persona on display in Malaysia this year too when Button was reflective despite a disappointing race that saw him finish outside the points having started in second position.

Despite having matured markedly since his early years in Formula One, Button said there was a side to him that he hides from the media which goes against his perceived character.

"We all have days when we're stressed, even when times are good," Button is quoted by Sporting Life. "That's about being a human being, I guess. But I definitely have days when I'm an arse; a side of my character I don't show to you guys (the media). I keep that under wraps because I am quite a private person when it comes to my personal life.

"But I'm not as relaxed as people may think. Maybe it's just the perception from the outside. But there are two types of people in every sport - one who is running towards something and one who is running away from something, and I still don't know which one I am. I know I love what I do, and I hate the days when I don't do very well, but I love the days when things go well.

"I just couldn't go through life with nothing. I need the highs and lows - and I hate the lows - but the highs make them worthwhile. Even when you get the lows you have to stay strong and try and be as positive as you can."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.