I'm often asked about the background photo on my LinkedIn profile, showing a wooden yacht anchored in front of Mount Sinai, so I thought I'd share the story of why I chose it to represent me and what I do. It is more than just a snapshot of a beautiful moment – it represents a deeply transformative chapter in my life.
23 years ago, my husband and I stumbled across this neglected wooden yacht in Thailand. Although he could sail, I couldn’t, and the boat had been abandoned for years. Despite the challenges, we restored it and set sail across the Indian Ocean and up the Red Sea. Along the way, we faced more than a few daunting moments – from almost being attacked by pirates to battling a fierce storm in the middle of the ocean. Yet, amidst these trials were moments of sheer wonder: dolphins racing alongside the boat, the ocean glowing with phosphorescence, and the night sky full of stars that seemed to stretch endlessly. More than anything, we were struck by the kindness of the people we met along the way, and the richness of new cultures and ways of life that shaped our understanding of the world.
Lessons for Navigating Change in Life and Work
This journey taught me more about navigating change - and how it can drive behaviour - than I ever could have imagined, and these lessons now form the heart of my work as a coaching psychologist:
Curiosity and Embracing the Unknown – Much like stepping onto a yacht with no sailing experience, behaviour change often requires curiosity and an openness to explore the unknown. When we’re curious about new ways of thinking and behaving, we unlock the potential for growth and transformation.
Resilience in the Face of Challenges – Whether evading pirates or weathering a storm, we learned that resilience isn’t about never facing hardship, but about continuing to move forward despite it. In times of change, resilience is a core strength that helps people and teams adapt and thrive.
The Power of Connection – At every stop, we were humbled by the kindness of strangers. Change can feel isolating, but human connection and shared experiences provide grounding and support. These relationships often become the foundation for navigating even the toughest transitions, providing the support as well as the accountability to keep going.
Adaptability and Flexibility – The ocean was unpredictable, but our ability to adjust our sails made all the difference. Similarly, in work and life, adaptability is key when facing the uncertainty that change often brings.
Appreciating the Journey – It wasn’t just about the destination. The richness of our adventure came from the process itself – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. This echoes my belief that in both life and coaching, the journey of change holds as much value as reaching the end goal.
This experience is a constant reminder that, while change can be challenging, it also opens doors to growth, connection, and adventure. Just as I navigated unfamiliar waters, I now help others navigate the complexities of leadership, interpersonal dynamics, and change in their own lives and careers – with curiosity, resilience, and the support of human connection.
If you'd like to explore how to navigate a change you either want to make in yourself, or in your situation, let's have a conversation!
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