Captain, Mentor, Guide, Babysitter

As captain of your recreational boat, you’ll wear many hats including Teacher, Fishing Guide, Babysitter, Deckhand and Host. Guests aboard will likely include friends, neighbors, and family of all ages.

Are you happy with the roles you play? I know captains who unwittingly feel into the role of de facto guide, which means they do all the work of running the boat, rigging gear, unhooking fish, and then doing all the boat cleanup. Unless you actively choose that role, resentment can build.

On the other hand, I’ve had coaching clients who want to mentor others and introduce them to the ocean. One of my clients enrolled in coaching specifically to prepare for volunteer “take a veteran fishing” events.

Grant yourself a moment to reflect on your roles as captain. Do you want help from your guests? If so, how much? Do you like taking newbies or do you prefer regular crew who can help with the workload?

Whatever roles you play, make sure you consciously choose them. It’s your boat and your choice.