"Only a surfer knows the feeling"

You may have heard the saying "only a surfer knows the feeling" - the one you get when you catch a wave for the first time. It just fills your mind, leaving you little room to think about anything but the feeling and the desire to repeat it. In a way, it directs your whole life towards trying to get the opportunity to experience the waves again, as soon as possible.

Although it would be nice to write about surfing, trips to surfing destinations, waves, the sea and unforgettable surfing experiences, what this article should be about is the so-called "surfer mentality" - as I see it and apply it in my life.

First and foremost, for me, life is about taking advantage of opportunities, connecting the right dots at the right time. In order to come to those opportunities and dots to connect, you have to expose yourself, be "out there". There will be no opportunities if your life remains trapped in the routine of home to work and back again. Translated into the surfer mentality – whenever a surfer has the chance, he goes out to sea, even though the conditions are never ideal. A surfer knows that the only way to feel that feeling again is to enter the sea, to paddle out there and get among the waves. He cannot catch a single wave if he sits on the shore, if he makes excuses and finds obstacles on the way to that experience.

Each surf location is unique, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Each wave is different, each requires a special approach, carries a certain risk, but also the possibility of incredible rewards. Surfers have learned to embrace change and adapt to new situations in order to make the most of what the waves have to offer. But they are also willing to take risks to experience the thrill and freedom that surfing brings. A surfer knows that sometimes the waves will knock him down, keep him under water and drag him to the bottom. He is aware that he might surface only to be hit again by another wave. But he also knows that if he stays calm, patient and adaptable in those moments, he will take those hits and get back on the waves. Being on the wave and being under the wave are all part of the same experience, and the experience is complete only if you experience both. This philosophy carries over to their approach to life, where they are willing to step out of their comfort zone to achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams. For them, life without risk is not life.

Surfers enjoy every wave they catch, but they also accept that they will often miss very good waves. They also know that there is always a new wave coming. Sometimes there will be long, quiet waiting periods between waves. Patience and proper positioning is all that matters when the next wave, or a business opportunity, inevitably comes. But even then, prudence is needed in choosing the right one, recognizing the one that is better to miss and the one that you should try to catch. Strategic positioning, understanding the environment, recognizing the right moment, are all important lessons that surfing teaches you.

While on the waves, surfers are completely focused on their movements, the environment and the dynamics of the waves. There is not much space to think about unimportant things, worries, obligations. This kind of awareness, "here and now", also permeates their everyday life, where they tend to enjoy the moment and the small joys of life. Applying this in life makes it more beautiful and enjoyable, ensuring the right amount of time dedicated to all important areas.

Surfers appreciate the friendliness and support of their colleagues and understand the importance of mutual respect, not only on the waves, but also in everyday life. Surfers adhere to the so-called "surfer ethics", follow the rules of behavior on the waves and, most importantly, leave the wave to the one who is in a better position at the right moment. Surfers rejoice in other people's success and the phenomenal experience of a well-surfed wave, and condemn selfish jumping on other people's waves, interference and carelessness.

Perhaps the secret of true satisfaction and freedom lies precisely in adopting the surfer mentality. Enjoy every moment, be ready to adapt to changes, be aware that a new wave is always coming and indulge in the experience whenever you get the chance - maybe the very next wave will be your best one yet! ??