Lewis Hamilton says his current winning form is a good reason to initiate contract talks with Mercedes.
The 32-year-old is committed to the Silver Arrows outfit for 2018 but has expressed his will to remain on-board and in F1 for the longer term.
"Racing really gives me more pleasure than ever," he said in Malaysia.
"But you have to look ahead. So I'm thinking about the decisions that I will take in the future.
"The longer I put off leaving the sport, the later my - how do I say it? - 'next life' will begin," Hamilton, explained.
"So I'm just trying to weigh everything up. In the meantime I'm continuing my career in Formula 1."
Pundits believe the three-time world champion will extend his allegiance to Mercedes for an additional three years, starting in 2019.
Hamilton, who currently enjoys a 28-point lead in the world championship over arch-rival Sebastian Vettel following three consecutive races wins, believes the timing is right to kick start contract talks with his employer.
"At some point in the near future it will be the time to discuss it," he said.
"Actually I think right now is a good time for negotiations, because I'm in great shape. You always want to negotiate a deal when you're winning and leading the championship!" he smiled.
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