The complementation of top-sport and business

As December has almost ended, it's time to reflect on the past year, 2024. After dedicating 2023 entirely to sailing, I made the decision to step back into the technical textile business, part-time, and to be more present at home and with friends and family. Looking back, I visited 16 countries, over 35 cities, and spent more than 150 days away from home. Was I more grounded than in 2023? Yes. But can we say the balance is fully achieved? Perhaps not yet.

This year, combining the worlds of top-level sailing and business offered a fresh perspective on their differences, similarities, and how they can complement each other.

Differences between sailing and business

In racing, the focus is singular: getting the boat from point A to point B as fast as possible, in one piece I might add. The hierarchy and job distribution are crystal clear. The skipper and navigator devise the plan, and the rest of the crew executes it. Decisions are made quickly, and debates are left for post-race evaluations. Priorities are simple: what benefits speed?

Contrast this with business, where priorities can compete, and goals can be achieved through multiple paths. Communication involves more layers, and decisions consider personal stakes and long-term impacts. There is no clear finish line, and the journey is ongoing. People management takes a center stage, with empathy and foresight becoming essential tools.

Similarities and Lessons Learned

Despite these differences, there are parallels. Both domains require discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Whether it’s on the water or in the boardroom, success relies on clarity, preparation, and the ability to adapt under pressure.

From sailing, I’ve learned the value of streamlined communication. On a boat, efficiency and precision in relaying information directly affects performance. Applying this to business, I’ve seen how clear and efficient communication ensures that complex business ideas are conveyed quickly and clearly, saving time and enhancing understanding among stakeholders. This clarity drives alignment and trust, enabling faster decision-making. Summarizing critical points concisely helps executives and teams focus on key information, allowing for quicker and more informed decisions. Furthermore, short and strategic communication eliminates unnecessary details, keeping attention on the core objectives and initiatives of the business.

The emphasis on continuous improvement also unites sports and business. After every race, crews analyse what worked and what didn’t, fine-tuning for the next competition. In business, the feedback loop—of trial, error, and adjustment—is equally critical for long-term growth.

Complementation: The interplay of sport and business

Sailing have taught me the importance of resilience and focus, traits that translate seamlessly into the business world. Business, in turn, has deepened my appreciation for stakeholder management and long-term strategy—elements that can strengthen team dynamics in sports.

As I continue to navigate these two worlds, the challenge lies in finding harmony. The structured decisiveness of racing can inspire clearer, faster decision-making in business. Similarly, the patience and emotional intelligence required in business can enhance team cohesion on the water.

Looking ahead

This year has been one of growth and learning. The journey of blending sailing and business continues to offer fresh perspectives and opportunities. While achieving balance between these demanding arenas remains a work in progress, the interplay between them has enriched both my professional and personal life.

As 2025 approaches, my focus is on building upon these reflections and fostering growth. I aim to explore how sailing and business can coexist and enhance one another, while also prioritizing more time at home with loved ones. This shift introduces a third facet to the equation—family, friends and personal well-being.

The coming year will be about refining priorities and embracing flexibility to navigate these evolving dimensions. Guided by lessons from the racecourse and the boardroom. Here’s to another year of charting new courses, whether amidst the winds of the sea or the challenges of the business world.