Amazing Adventures Await... with the right crew.
I've been sailing for a few years. For me, being out on the water is grounding, which is an odd thing to say given that's the thing you're furthest from.
It's usually not as calm and comfortable as this photo might suggest. The water isn't always flat or the weather so pleasant. After sunset comes a cold, dark night, when sleep comes in naps, if you're lucky to get it. The offshore night sky is beautiful though, if it's clear and there are stars to steer by.
Any sail might become a nightmare if you're not with the right people, prepared and ready for anything. Literally, anything. Stuff happens out there and you have to figure it out. I don't have photos of some of the dicey situations I've been in, because phones are stowed and there are no idle bystanders. We've come away with some good stories and things have always worked out because we worked together, sharing perspective and experience when appropriate, and staying both alert and out of the way when others had a problem handled.
The right crew on the right boat reminds me of the Margaret Mead quote, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." Careful planning, attention to detail, common vision, and a lot of coordinated effort can result in amazing outcomes. When there is no option but to solve a problem, you do, and you're a stronger team for it. The same goes for commonly held goals.
So why am I sharing this on LinkedIn? I've been thinking a lot about the people we choose to surround ourselves with, personally and professionally. It's hard to get things done when you're not with the right crew, and harder still if you are with the WRONG crew. Doing more and working harder is more likely to burn you out versus fix anything.
Conversely, when you're on the right boat with the right crew, you know. Together, you do hard things, well, while smiling. Diverse perspectives are heard and respected, shining light on new possibilities. There's less chatter and complaining, and more clear communication, active listening, curiosity, constructive challenge, and feedback. Accountability, trust, and candor, built on a foundation of trust and shared values, lead to success and celebration.
It's fun working hard, doing things that matter with people who care. Find your crew. Choose wisely. They're out there, and they're looking for you, too.
Cindy Cornell your journey is insightful and your message is powerful ... "Find your crew. Choose wisely. They're out there, and they're looking for you, too."
Geez Louise…..this was timely. So good. So so good. I am taking this with me and shifting my sails accordingly. Happy New Year my friend. ☀️
Very true, both on raceboats and in life!
Hi Cindy, this just came up on my feed! I loved the part "It's hard to get things done when you're not with the right crew, and harder still if you are with the WRONG crew. Doing more and working harder is more likely to burn you out versus fix anything." simple yet very sophisticated message. Thanks for sharing and Happy New Year in advance!
Cindy, this is a stunning way to start the day! My father was a cruising sailor and Captain for much of his life, and the idea of finding the right crew is spot on. The Margaret Mead quote is the heartbeat of Rock The Walls Foundation, Inc. —a once-fragmented group of people, navigating storms alone, now coming together like a retreating tsunami, ready to change the world! I’ll send you a signal to make sure you’re somewhere in the Caribbean when the wave hits!😉 Thank you for this beautiful inspiration, and I look forward to hearing more about your new journey!