Lewis Hamilton says he has been pleased with his consistency so far this season despite having not won any races yet.
The McLaren driver sits on top of the championship standings after having finished in third place in the first three races of the year, two points ahead of teammate Jenson Button.
Hamilton, who has started from pole position twice, is yet to win a race in 2012, but the Briton insists that consistency remains his main goal.
"The target every year is to have consistency and some years it doesn't go to plan," said Hamilton ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix. "But this year I am fortunate to be on the podium at each of the three races, so it's fantastic."
He downplayed the significance of leading the championship, however, saying it is way too early.
"It is very, very early in the season. In previous years you have seen the championship leaders swap positions so it doesn't mean much," he said.
The 2008 World Champion, who endured a difficult 2011 season, says he is feeling mentally stronger this year.
"I definitely think that the last three years have added to where I am today," he said. "A lot of lessons learned and a lot of great and good experiences. We all have to keep our mind in a certain way. It is really a massive mental game, which is why I never gave up in getting on the right path, but I feel there or thereabouts now."