On Land, We Often Hide from Ourselves; at Sea, There’s No Place to Hide – Nikki Henderson

Why Sail Offshore? To Magnify Your Life

Ahoy there, fellow adventurers! As I find myself halfway to the Caribbean, I’m reminded of the allure and challenges of offshore sailing. This is my third attempt at writing this column, and each attempt has been interrupted by the unpredictable nature of the sea. The first was cut short by a squall that caught us off guard, sending us surfing down a wave at 19 knots. The second attempt was during my 0300-0600 watch, where I found myself more engaged in stargazing than writing. Yet, amidst the chaos and beauty of the ocean, a profound question arises: Why do we sail offshore? Often, it’s to magnify our lives. But the bigger question is, will you like what you see?

The Perspective Shift

Offshore sailing has a unique way of putting our lives into perspective. It strips away the distractions and comforts of daily life, forcing us to confront our realities. A sailing friend of mine, Sophie, once remarked that offshore sailing acts as a magnifier for our relationships. It exposes the cracks and weaknesses, revealing what truly needs attention. You don’t embark on a sea voyage to save a relationship; you go to discover what aspects require work.

As a professional sailor, I often find myself reflecting on the nature of our problems. Out here, the challenges are tangible and immediate. My crewmate George and I often compare our experiences at sea to his time in the U.S. Marine Corps. Just like on the front lines, the issues we face at sea—like a malfunctioning watermaker or the threat of severe weather—are real and demand our full attention. This stark reality pulls us into the present moment, allowing us to shed the superficial worries that often consume us on land.

What Truly Matters

When stripped of luxuries, the essentials of life become clear. Beyond food, water, and a dry bed, the most important aspects of our lives revolve around love—our connections with people, pets, and places. Out here, we come to realize who and what we truly miss. It’s a powerful reminder that survival and connection are the cornerstones of our existence.

However, magnifying our lives isn’t always a comfortable experience. As Sophie pointed out, it can highlight our weak points and reveal the time we’ve wasted on trivial pursuits. Offshore, we gain clarity about what—or who—we need to let go of. This process can be challenging, but it’s essential for personal growth.

Facing Ourselves

One of the most daunting aspects of sailing offshore is confronting ourselves. On land, we often find ways to hide from our true selves, but at sea, there’s no escape. The confined space and the intensity of the experience force us to face our baggage, stress, and character traits—both good and bad. The ocean acts as a mirror, reflecting our innermost thoughts and feelings back at us.

Even with modern distractions like Starlink providing internet access, the overwhelming presence of Mother Nature remains. The sea demands our attention and respect, compelling us to take a long, hard look at ourselves. As George and I discussed, it’s not enough to merely observe; we must also work through what we see. Some of our scars and habits can hinder our ability to tackle the real challenges we face.

The Treasure of Transformation

Yet, therein lies the gold mine of offshore sailing: the opportunity for profound personal transformation. The sea offers a chance to fundamentally change how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. It’s a treasure trove of insights waiting to be discovered.

As we navigate the waves and weather the storms, we are also navigating the complexities of our inner lives. The lessons learned at sea can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. So, if you’re contemplating an offshore adventure, remember that it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey within.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sailing offshore is more than just a physical journey; it’s a voyage of self-discovery. It magnifies our lives, revealing what truly matters and challenging us to confront our realities. While the experience may be uncomfortable at times, it ultimately offers the chance to grow, evolve, and find clarity in our lives. So, set sail, embrace the adventure, and take a good look at what the sea has to show you. The treasure you find may just change your life forever.