The number one issue that I continue to hear is usually this: the “guy” comes to me and says how do I convince my wife to sail with me? I am ready to go, and she is afraid, doesn’t feel comfortable on the boat and on top of that she doesn’t want to leave our kids. Now, there may be some variation to this statement, however the underlying issue is the spouse/partner has a belief or fear that is taking them outside of their comfort zone and the easiest thing to do is make up some excuse or position of why. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The first thing that must be determined is what is the underlying fear. And frankly, if you broach that conversation, you won’t get anywhere fast.
This is why there are Cruising Coaches. We are trained to find the underlying source and collaborate closely with the client to put it in perspective. This can take a bit of time. The other side of the coin is what good or positive could come out of this experience. Being a third party who understands what is “involved in sailing or cruising” can be a real asset. Why, because when your partner/spouse speaks their truth there is no disappointment, persuasion, or belittling. We can acknowledge “their truth” with no judgement. It’s a safe space and frankly if your partner can begin to recognize that this is just another form of fear – fear is just a “signal”! Fear likes to keep us in a box, the comfort zone. We can step beyond fear and by beginning this process we can begin to learn skills and knowledge that will build our confidence and that is the beginning of success.
If this is you and you would like assistance email me at Captain@sailingandboatingllc.com
