From Salty Spray to Sweet Victory: Life Lessons Learned on the High Seas

“A ship is safest when in its port, but that is not what ships are built for”

What a thrilling experience!

When I was invited to this event, little did I know that it would be such a memorable experience (and somewhat life-changing). I am a Naval kid and have had the opportunity to board many a ships and submarines, however never went sailing. Let alone have the opportunity to be the navigator (captain) for one. The past Saturday I learnt some life lessons on the high seas.

🔝 Adaptability and Agility – Sailing isn’t just about mastering knots and trimming sails. It’s about adaptability and agility. The ocean throws everything at you: swirling winds, shifting currents, unpredictable squalls. You learn to think on your feet, adjust strategies in real-time, and navigate uncertainty with a steady hand. In the business world, this translates to agility, embracing change, and rolling with the punches – something no MBA can fully teach.

▶ Teamwork – On a sailboat, there’s no room for lone wolves. Teamwork is paramount. Every crew member has a vital role, and success hinges on seamless communication, trust, and shared responsibility. You learn to rely on your teammates, delegate effectively, and give and receive feedback without ego. One wrong move and you are doomed. These skills are the bedrock of high-performing teams, no matter if you’re conquering the Pacific or the quarterly report.

⏸ Humility – Sailing is also a masterclass in humility. The ocean doesn’t care about your title or pedigree. A rogue wave can humble the most seasoned skipper, and even the smallest mistake can have serious consequences. You learn to respect the power of nature, acknowledge your limitations, and constantly strive to improve. This humbleness translates to a grounded leadership style, open to learning and feedback, and a clear understanding that no one has all the answers.

🔁 Victory – But ultimately, sailing is about the thrill of victory. I can say this because my team was victorious. The shared elation of pushing yourselves to the limit, overcoming challenges, and achieving a shared goal as one is unmatched. It’s a taste of pure accomplishment that fuels your drive and fosters a resilient spirit that spills over into every aspect of life.

So, the next time you’re facing a tough negotiation, navigating a complex project, or building a high-performing team, remember the lessons learned on the high seas. Be adaptable, collaborate, stay humble, and chase that sweet victory together. Go sailing!

Thank you Harish Iyer for thinking of me and inviting me for this experience – Axis Bank SynCHROnicity Regatta, in association with SDA Bocconi ASIA CENTER, powered by Aquasail India.

Thank you for curating this experience for all of us.