Surfs Up!!!
Surfs Up!!!
Recently, I had the incredible privilege of watching the World Surf League in Jeffreys Bay on the East Coast of South Africa. This prestigious contest brings together some of the best surfers on the planet.
At the start of the competition, South African surfer Jordy Smith wore the coveted yellow jersey – a symbol of being top of the rankings. He’s truly one of the world’s elite surfers and sportsmen. While battling for a spot in the quarterfinals, Jordy hit the rocks at the end of a wave. Though he paddled back out, he didn’t catch another wave. His competitor, meanwhile, capitalised, riding multiple waves and eventually taking Jordy’s place in the next round. The mood on the beach was sombre. Understandably so – many in that small town, and across South Africa, were rooting for him.
It reminded me of something we too often forget: we look at professionals and assume they have it all figured out. But setbacks come for everyone. That day reminded me of three truths, lessons I often share with those I coach, and try to live by myself:
1. A Missed Wave Doesn’t Make Me a Bad Surfer: Too many people get stuck here. One bad day, one underwhelming performance, one lost opportunity – or one impatient moment with a child or spouse – can feel defining. But it isn’t. Life is made of both the good and the bad. As long as we’re learning, growing, and leaning into the better parts, we’re making progress. One rough moment doesn’t mean the whole story is lost.
2. Surfing Is a Marathon: At dinner that evening, we sat among a group of pro surfers reflecting on the day. One of them said, “Surfing is a marathon.” That phrase stuck. Just like life, surfing isn’t won or lost in a single wave, decision, or day. The ability to reflect when things don’t go as planned – to adjust your course, thoughts, or approach – and then to show up again tomorrow… that’s what sets the best apart from the rest.
3. Your Thoughts Are Like Waves – Learn to Ride Them: Watching those towering waves makes you feel small. Surfers learn which waves to ride and which ones to let pass. They read the water; they don’t try to control it. Our thoughts are much the same: constantly arriving, often without permission. Learning which ones to engage with and which ones to release is a skill we can all cultivate. One exercise I’ve found helpful is writing down your Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs) and asking:
• Is it true?
• Is it 100% true?
• How do I feel when I believe this thought?
• How would I feel without it?
• What’s the opposite thought? Could it be true, or even truer, than the original one?
Jordy Smith’s moment stirs something. It’s that stark reminder that even those in the spotlight, those we’ve placed on a pedestal, face stumbles that can shift the energy of an entire beach. I hope you have a super weekend, and if the waves aren’t perfect, just paddle back out. There’s always another set rolling in.
If you are having a difficult time trying to navigate your thoughts we would love to help, get in touch. You can reach us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
At PurposeWorks we are all about Making You and Your Work Rock. Our focus is on Organisational Health and Design, Employee Centered Culture, Leadership Development and Performance Coaching. For more information on how we can help you create a work environment that rocks, develop a great team, become an inspiring leader or unlock your personal excellence talk to us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
