Sailing Against the Storm: A Captain’s Tale of Grit and Integrity

Sailing Against the Storm: A Captain’s Tale of Grit and Integrity

The San Francisco Bay churned angrily beneath our hull, gray waves slapping against the sides of the 35-foot Ericson I knew like the back of my hand. This wasn't just another day on the water – it was the day I had to prove my worth as a captain.

I'd spent months preparing for this moment, studying charts, memorizing regulations, and honing my skills. But no amount of preparation could have readied me for the challenge that lay ahead. As I stepped onto the deck, the biting wind carrying salt spray, I knew the examiner waiting for me had a reputation. He was known for being ruthless, for pushing candidates to their limits and beyond. His goal? To see me fail.


But I had a secret weapon: determination coursing through my veins like the very tides we were about to battle.

As we set sail, it became clear we were the only fools braving the bay that day. The examiner barked orders, demanding tacks and anchoring maneuvers in conditions that would make seasoned sailors think twice. With each successful execution, I could see a glimmer of begrudging respect in his eyes. But he wasn't done with me yet.

"Controlled jibe," he shouted over the howling wind. My heart raced. A jibe, shifting the mainsail from one side to the other, is treacherous even on calm days. In this gale, it was nothing short of perilous. The boom, a massive spar capable of knocking a man overboard, would be swinging with the force of the storm behind it.

Gritting my teeth, I executed the maneuver flawlessly. The sail snapped taught, the boom swung true, and we emerged on the other tack without so much as a stumble. But the examiner wasn't satisfied. "Again," he demanded.

My arms trembled with exhaustion, and my clothes were soaked through, but my pride wouldn't let me quit. Once more, I brought us through the jibe with a precision that belied the chaos around us.

Still, the examiner pushed for more. That's when I knew – this wasn't about testing skills anymore. This was recklessness. Drawing myself up to my full height, I locked eyes with him and declared, "I'm the captain now, and we're heading in."

The rest of the crew visibly relaxed as I guided us safely back to port. Without a word to the examiner, I marched straight to the marina manager's office. My report of the day's events led to the examiner's dismissal – his dangerous methods finally catching up with him.

That stormy day taught me more than any textbook ever could. It showed me that true captaincy isn't just about sailing skills – it's about having the courage to stand up for what's right, even in the face of authority. It's about knowing when to push forward and when to say, "Enough."

As I clutched my hard-earned captain's license, I knew I'd not only passed a test but also found my true north. In life, as on the sea, integrity and grit are the best compass we have.


Turning Struggles into Strengths


Melinda Fouts, Ph.D., is an executive coach. She coaches a range of clients-those in transition, those needing a thought partner, and those needing more tools in their toolbox. Her experience as a practicing psychotherapist allows her to discover her clients’ blind spots, which helps them focus on improving their communication and management skills.?

Melinda is in Carbondale, Colorado. You can reach her at 970-274-3130 or via email. You can get on her calendar here.

Clive Michelsen

Proactive Healthcare Innovator

3 个月

Wonderful story Melinda Fouts, Ph.D. International Executive Coach, Author, Speaker and I cannot agree more with you. Being a Captain of your Boat is as important as the wind in your sails. ????????????

Cristina Prosser

Payment Posting Manager at AdventHealth

3 个月

I agree!

Seleem Choudhury

Senior Hospital Executive

3 个月

I love storms and last night (in bed) in VT we had a wonderful storm…That's a powerful statement about integrity and grit. Integrity ensures that we stay true to our values and principles, even when faced with challenges, while grit gives us the perseverance to push forward despite difficulties. Together, they form a strong moral and practical compass for navigating life. These qualities can guide us to make decisions that align with our character and long-term goals, rather than being swayed by short-term rewards or external pressures.

Shai Feinsod

CEO @ Tengable | We're developing a breakthrough technology that will restore lost tactile sensation for millions who have suffered Traumatic Nerve Injury and more.

3 个月

This is an excellent lesson in leadership. The rules and structure have value, but the extra spark makes the difference.

Cory Sanchez

B2B Lead Generation | Featured on Forbes | "Marketer of the Year"| International Speaker | Best Selling Author

3 个月

awesome story!

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