Learning: a never-ending journey (Originally posted on LinkedIn Sept 2020)
Learning: a never-ending journey (Originally posted on LinkedIn Sept 2020)
Although it is not in my habit to share anything personal here, I’ll make an exception today and share some precious lessons I learned the hard way…
I recently realised a 20+ year old dream when I shaped my first surfboard from scratch. It is not every day you get to tick something off your bucket list 😊!
Without going much into details, it is a chambered wooden Alaia (traditional Hawaiian surf craft) made out of locally sourced Paulownia and Meranti through a rather lengthy process: cut the wood pieces to size, put it together, shape, pull it all apart, chamber every single piece, glue back together, clean and finish (Linseed oil and bee’s wax here).
What I learnt through the process is I believe highly applicable to most work or life situations:
1) Plan ahead: sounds simple enough but the better the planning, the better the execution. It includes training and tools as well. If you never used a chisel before, chances are you won’t get the results you expect (not mentioning the high probability for slicing your fingers…).
2) You get what you pay for: very true regarding tools, material and resources. Cheaper is not always better, however it is sometimes just enough. All depends on your specific need so you have to ask yourself the right questions.
3) Manage your expectations: perfection can rarely be achieved, especially when taking on a new endeavours/activities. Thrive for the best you can and set yourself ambitious yet achievable goals.
4) Deal with the unexpected: even with the best plan, Murphy’s law will inevitably kick in somewhere somehow. Stay calm, step back and adapt.
1) There are no mistakes, only learning opportunities: mistakes happen, even to the best of us, focusing on what you can learn from them rather than complaining (I’m French, I know what I’m talking about) is the only viable way forward.
2) Do not become obsessed: whatever we do for work or leisure will never be as important as health, family, friendships… Make sure to take breathers, it’ll keep you sane and allow you to come back to your project with a fresh set of eyes.
3) The potential virtues of procrastinating: maybe controversial, but in my experience, if you are not “ready” to do something now, come back at it tomorrow if you can afford it. Nothing wastes more time than doing a task unwillingly. Do something else instead!
4) Be proud: if you spend the time, effort and money to achieve something, you should be proud! (look at me showing-off on Linkedin right now😊) Nothing wrong with that, and it actually feels good!
Special thanks to my friend Pierre (@www.foodaly.com.au) for taking over the testing from me, obviously a better surfer than I’m a photographer. The board floats, it surfs and it did not break: It’s a win in my book!
Hope someone will find that helpful!
