It’s my second shift of the weekend as a Coast Guard – as a rescue boat crew member and as a radio officer – which is part of my monthly ‘giving back’ commitment to the community my wife and I live in; and I’m very proud of the work we carry out for members of the public who take to the sea. Even if they don’t always take the kind of care for themselves, and others, that they should.
In the 2023 ‘Marine incidents in Queensland’ annual report, almost one marine incident a day was reported in our waters. These consisted of collisions with other vessels, capsizes, collisions with an object, and groundings. In all, 16 people died; and 13 of these fatalities was caused by drowning.
Of those who drowned, precisely none were wearing a lifejacket.
At our Coast Guard station, we have 6 rescue vessels of different sizes, ranging from a 3.8 metre ‘RIB’ up to a 12 metre launch; and each boat, irrespective of size, is commanded by a Master. This person is not usually the person steering and navigating the boat however; that is the role of the Helmsman, who takes orders from the Master about the destination. But the Master relies on the Helmsman to steer the most effective course, taking into account things like tide, wind, weather and the capability of the vessel and the crew. The Master always has ultimate responsibility for the safety of the craft and crew; but they all rely on the Helmsman to reach the destination, and to return home, safely.
Am I going to draw an analogy to coaching? Yes, I am… Because I see the coach as a Helmsman, whilst the person being coached as the Master.
You’re being coached because you know where you want to go with your life and your career; but a coach can steer you in the right direction, and help you to avoid the diversions along the way that might take you away from your chosen destination.
It’s a close relationship based on respect for each other.
The waiting list for my coaching services and details of my coaching content, including how to download my free eBook on the benefits of coaching for creatives, awaits you here:
www.soundproducer.com.au/coaching
(Top tips: don’t take to sea without a lifejacket; and don’t be afraid to have help in steering your career.)
