Lessons from the Rolex Middle Sea Race – Braving the Storm on the water and in life.

I recently had the privilege of participating in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, a gruelling 7-day sailing challenge around the Mediterranean that truly tested my limits and taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

8 of us on a 10-meter boat, navigating through every type of weather imaginable, from dead calms to a brutal 65-knot squall. It was an experience I’ll never forget, and one that highlighted the importance of preparation, trust, and open communication.

Each member of our crew had a specific role to play, but it wasn’t just about knowing our positions; it was about having the discipline to carry them out precisely and consistently, no matter how exhausted we were. We knew that even a small mistake could throw off the entire boat’s performance.

Preparation was everything. We spent countless hours before the race honing our skills, studying the route, and practicing drills, knowing that our success depended on it. Similarly, in our work, preparation and a disciplined approach can make all the difference between merely finishing and truly excelling.

Discipline was also critical when it came to following the skipper’s instructions. Out there, we couldn’t afford to question or second-guess in the moment. Every command needed to be followed precisely and immediately, even if it meant pushing through fatigue or discomfort. That discipline – to focus on the task at hand, even when it was hard – reminded me how crucial it is to stay committed to our shared goals here at work, especially when challenges arise.

Open dialogue was essential to keeping us coordinated and effective. Before each shift, we’d check in with each other, sharing updates, concerns, and ideas. This dialogue wasn’t just about the technical aspects of sailing; it was about making sure everyone felt supported and heard. When we faced that 65-knot squall, it was the open, honest conversations we’d had beforehand that allowed us to trust one another completely in the heat of the moment.

When we share insights and keep communication transparent, we build a foundation of trust and understanding. Just as on the boat, knowing that you can speak up or reach out for support makes all the difference when the pressure is on.

Looking back, there are so many parallels between this race and our day-to-day work. Each of us brings our own skills and strengths, and we’re all essential to achieving our shared goals. Just like on the boat, we must rely on one another’s preparation, discipline, and willingness to communicate effectively. There were moments during the race where progress felt impossible, especially during the long night shifts or when the wind completely disappeared. In those times, it was our mental stamina and trust in the process – and in each other – that kept us moving. This experience taught me that setbacks are inevitable, both on the water and in our work lives.

I came back from this experience with a renewed appreciation for the importance of teamwork, discipline, and effective communication. As we continue working towards our goals here, let’s remember that we’re all in the same boat. Let’s prepare thoroughly, act with discipline, and keep the lines of communication open. When things get challenging, we’ll be able to rely on each other to navigate through – just like we did out there on the Mediterranean.

Even though most of us were first timers, we still managed to place 5th in our category and received an award for outstanding act of sportsmanship. The Jarhead Young Sailors foundation gave us this opportunity to flourish and put our hard work to play. Also, I am super appreciative to Pharma MT who sponsored the teams and for building trust in the foundation.

Here’s to keeping our sails up and our spirits high, no matter what the “weather” brings!