How do I deal with competition?

See the photo below. When I was posting my previous article on X.co (Twitter) I was literally following a post of Elon Musk.

I thought it was funny when I grabbed this screenshot. 

So how do you compete with Elon Musk on Social Media?

- If you are young, you could try to outlive him.

- If you are resilient, you can tune him out.

- If you are a fan, you could join him.

- Today, I chose to re-post him.

Ok, personal delusions about Elon being one's competition aside, I will try to cover the topic of social media competition in the future, but tonight is too late for that.

~ ~ ~

So how do you complete?

I used to be a competitive runner, I think my name is still on my school’s leaderboard, at least it used to be there for decades.

I my career I was trying to  prove myself as imposter syndrom was my modus operandi and followed me always.

I noticed that once I was in the groove in a given job, I wanted to move on and do something bigger, something more in tune with the times.

Never compete with people who are already on your level or below. 

First, it shows how petty you are, second it is not “sportive”, third teaching, mentoring and cooperating leaves a clean wake behind you and sailing is smoother.

Always look for solutions do not see problems.

Ok, so when I was posting my articles, seeing Elon’s post competing did not discourage me, even that I knew that all of the people like me will gravitate to Elon and not my post. It is like walking to a party where the popular kid is already getting all the attention.

Instead I grabbed the screenshot as I thought it was a great setup for the next article on competition.

 

Please SUBSCRIBE: https://ukidlucas.beehiiv.com

#book: "Tamata and the Alliance" by Bernard Moitessier

"Tamata and the Alliance: A MEMOIR" by Bernard Moitessier, a legendary French yachtsman and author. 

The book is a narrative of his voyages and a profound reflection on his philosophy of life and sailing. Moitessier is known for his deep connection with the sea, and this work encapsulates his spiritual journey as much as his physical voyages across the oceans.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aQvpN2

"Tamata and the Alliance"

by Bernard Moitessier

https://amzn.to/4aQvpN2

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.


Translated by William Rodarmor

SHERIDAN HOUSE

We are all descendants of voyagers

Last night, as a fitting conclusion to our family trip to Maui, I re-watched Moana, probably my favorite movie of the kids’ genre. 

I can very much identify with the story. 

Similarly, my childhood love for the ocean and underwater diving started very early with “Oum, Le Dauphine Blanc” stories.

That was me as a kid… 

Watch the original series (in French) on YouTube

Ian, Marina, Uncle Patric, who was an oceanographer or marine biologist, exotic animals, and scuba diving in the Polynesian Islands.

Back in Europe, still in high school, I traveled to Jagiellonian University, where I studied with a professor of the botanical department. I took private lessons in biology with the full intent of becoming a biologist. 

I ended up a U.S. Marine, East Asian anthropology student, and an advanced SCUBA diver on the beautiful island of Okinawa for the most meaningful years of my youth.

Today, I am more like old Uncle Partic, not Ian, but the dream lives on.

I have dreamed about traveling and exploring my whole life. 

I always wanted more than sunset sailboat cruises; I wanted to go somewhere to make a passage.

As a kid, I read books about explorers, starting with Jules Verne (properly pronounced żul vern). 

Returning to the quote from Moana and the title of this post: 

"We are all descendants of voyagers."

Most people, especially those comfortable with their lives at home, in the city, or in the village, do not realize that we are truly descendants of explorers. Without the drive to explore and travel, humans would likely not survive the bottlenecks of the evolutionary process. I discuss the eruption of volcano Toba 70,000 years ago in a separate post.

In Polish, we have a saying similar to "travels (will) educate (you)." It was also customary to send youth to be educated abroad, to become "cosmopolitan," as my mother would call it. The Greek word for cosmopolitan means a person from many cities.

The opposite of cosmopolitan is a beet (root), or if you prefer radish (root), in Polish "burak," describing a people who are settled, or planted, in their local opinions to the point they are red on the face.

So instead of treating vacations as glam, Instagram swimming pool-side photo shoot opportunities take kids and show them new places and cultures.

Rarotonga by Christian Williams

 

Also, some photos from my walk today in Sammamish.

Wind, Kite Surfing, Maui, Hawai’i

 We visited Kanaha Beach and vicinity to witness a wide array of surfing types. 

Stribog - Slavic god of winds

 

Stribog is the Slavic god of wind, sky, and air. He is also the ancestor of the winds of the eight directions. Stribog is depicted as a wise elder with a long, grey beard who can transform into a magical bird called Stratim. He is believed to reside on an island at the center of the Earth, and to control the direction and strength of the winds. Stribog is believed to have immense power over climate and natural phenomena, and can: Summon storms, Bring forth favorable winds for sailing

Herreshoff

 

Herreshoff sailing yacht Doris, aka Vayu or Huntress

 

The sailing yacht “Doris,” also known as Vayu or Huntress in various stages of her life, stands out as a significant piece of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company’s legacy. Designed by Nathanael Greene Herreshoff and launched in 1905, Doris is often celebrated for her elegance, innovative design, and the craftsmanship inherent in her construction. Here are some details about her:

Q: What makes the Doris yacht special in maritime history?

A: Doris is one of the largest all-wood sailing yachts built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, noted for her exceptional design and beauty. At the time of her launch, she was among the most advanced and elegantly crafted sailing yachts, exemplifying the pinnacle of early 20th-century yacht design and luxury. Her sleek lines, impressive rig, and the use of high-quality materials underscore the Herreshoff commitment to excellence and innovation.

Q: How did Doris contribute to Nathanael Herreshoff’s reputation?

A: The construction and performance of Doris reinforced Nathanael Herreshoff’s reputation as a leading naval architect. Her design incorporated many of Herreshoff’s hallmark characteristics, such as a balanced hull, advanced rigging techniques, and an emphasis on speed without sacrificing safety or beauty. Doris served as a testament to Herreshoff’s genius in yacht design, further cementing his legacy in naval architecture.

Q: What happened to Doris over the years?

A: Over the years, Doris underwent several ownership changes and names, including Vayu and Huntress. Despite these changes and the challenges of preservation, efforts have been made to restore and maintain her. Restoration projects aim to bring Doris back to her original splendor, ensuring that this piece of maritime history remains a testament to the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company’s craftsmanship and Nathanael Greene Herreshoff’s design ingenuity.

Q: Why is the preservation of Doris important?

A: Preserving Doris is crucial for maritime history because it allows future generations to witness the technological advancements and aesthetic considerations of early 20th-century yacht design. She serves as a floating museum piece, illustrating the craftsmanship, innovation, and vision of the Herreshoff legacy. Preservation efforts not only honor the past but also educate the public about the evolution of yacht design and maritime engineering.

The story of Doris encapsulates the spirit of innovation that the Herreshoff family brought to yacht design, making her a cherished relic of maritime history.

Herreshoff Yachts - Seven Generations of Industrialists, Inventors and Ingenuity in Bristol by Richard V. Simpson

 I am listening to a book about history of Herreshoff family, a truly amazing story.

“Herreshoff Yachts: Seven Generations of Industrialists, Inventors, and Ingenuity in Bristol” by Richard V. Simpson chronicles the remarkable journey of the Herreshoff family and their significant contributions to maritime engineering and yachting. Spanning seven generations, the book details how this influential family in Bristol, Rhode Island, became synonymous with innovative yacht design and manufacturing, leaving an indelible mark on the world of competitive sailing and luxury yachting.

Q: Who were the Herreshoff family?

A: The Herreshoff family, led by brothers Nathanael Greene Herreshoff and John Brown Herreshoff, were American industrialists and inventors. Nathanael, also known as “Captain Nat,” was a naval architect and mechanical engineer known for his innovative yacht designs, while John, despite being blind, was an adept businessman and managed their manufacturing company.

Q: What innovations did the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company introduce?

A: The Herreshoff Manufacturing Company was renowned for its technological advancements in yacht design, including the use of lightweight materials, development of efficient hull shapes, and incorporation of cutting-edge technologies for that era. They were pioneers in using aluminum and bronze in their designs, significantly improving performance and durability.

Q: What impact did the Herreshoff yachts have on competitive sailing?

A: Herreshoff yachts dominated competitive sailing from the late 19th to the early 20th century, including winning the prestigious America’s Cup multiple times. Their designs set new standards for speed, agility, and craftsmanship, influencing yacht design principles still valued today.

Q: How has the legacy of the Herreshoff family influenced modern yacht design?

A: The legacy of the Herreshoff family lives on through their innovative design principles, which continue to influence modern yacht design. The emphasis on research, development, and a scientific approach to design laid the groundwork for future generations of naval architects and engineers.

This summary encapsulates the essence of the Herreshoff family’s contributions to yacht design and their lasting legacy in the field of naval architecture.

Tarkine

 

Wulkie

 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc5WdboIheJnIwyZYdtPpyUMVr3WzGZS5&si=rFKPH9cWq4k0K7xI

XylaCLC

https://bit.ly/XylaCLC

https://www.cwb.org/

Xyla Foxlin is an American engineer, entrepreneur, and YouTuber known for her tutorial videos on technical projects. Graduating from Case Western Reserve University in 2019 with a B.S.E. in General Engineering focusing on Mechatronics and Creative Technology, she also served as the Executive Director for the non-profit Beauty and the Bolt, aiming to lower entry barriers for women and minorities in STEM fields. Foxlin’s YouTube channel features projects requiring woodworking and engineering skills .

Goat Island Skiff

 https://www.storerboatplans.com/boatplans/goat-island-skiff-simple-sailing-boat-excellent-performance-lightweight/

The Goat Island Skiff (GIS) is celebrated for its simplicity in construction and sailing, alongside impressive performance capabilities. Designed by Michael Storer in 1993, this sailboat is known for being lightweight, easy to handle, and capable of accommodating up to four adults while maintaining excellent stability and speed. It’s particularly noted for its performance in various sailing conditions, capable of rowing effectively, and even handling a small outboard motor. The GIS features a hull weight of approximately 130 pounds, making it lighter than many racing dinghies, such as the 14ft Laser, and thus easily transportable.

The construction of the GIS emphasizes simplicity with a reduced number of parts and the use of plywood, aiming for a balance between lightness and structural integrity. The design incorporates a 105 square feet sail, optimized for efficiency and control. Its dimensions are 15’ 6” in length and 5ft in beam, with a shallow draft of 4 inches, enabling the skiff to navigate in varied water conditions.

A key aspect of the GIS is its balanced design, with minimal rocker and a hull that distributes volume evenly from bow to stern. This results in a boat that maintains course well when heeled and responds effectively to helm inputs, even at extreme angles. The design’s focus on light weight, combined with a rig that minimizes complexity and cost, has made the GIS popular among amateur builders and seasoned sailors alike.

Plans and kits for the Goat Island Skiff are available internationally, catering to DIY builders and enthusiasts who seek a blend of traditional and modern sailing experiences. The active GIS community, particularly on social media platforms, offers support and inspiration for those building or sailing their own skiff   .

The Spray: Building and Sailing a Replica of Joshua Slocum’s Famous Vessel” by R.D. Culler

 

“The Spray: Building and Sailing a Replica of Joshua Slocum’s Famous Vessel” by R.D. Culler is a detailed account of the author’s experience constructing and utilizing a replica of Slocum’s celebrated craft, the Spray. Culler shares insights that would interest and assist those contemplating building and sailing a Spray, drawing from his extensive knowledge of traditional wooden boat building methods using wood, iron, and canvas .

ASA 101

I decided to re-take this class as it has been few years since I sailed s keelboat (not a day sailer dinghy). In addition, I wanted to practice in PNW that adds additional difficulties to sailing Great Lakes.

 

Across Islands and Oceans by James Baldwin

"Prisons come at various shapes and forms, most of them filled to the brink by the self-commited" James Baldwin

Lahakai

 

Electric

 Electric pod motor

Where is Kiana?

I came across the YouTube channel and blog of Kiana, a beautiful young lady sailing an old catamaran across the Atlantic Ocean. 

Often, we procrastinate because we cannot afford the fancy boat we dream of, but the adventure awaits us on a simple, inexpensive boat we can afford now.

https://whereskiana.com/

 

Bound for Distant Seas by James Baldwin

 I am listening to the book "Bound for Distant Seas - A Voyage Alone to Asia Aboard the 28-Foot Sailboat Atom" by James Baldwin

"Bound for Distant Seas" is a maritime adventure memoir by James Baldwin, detailing his solo circumnavigation of the globe aboard his small sailboat, Atom. Baldwin shares his experiences from preparation to completion, including challenges at sea, the solitude of long passages, the cultures he encounters at various landfalls, and the deep personal insights gained through the journey. The narrative goes beyond mere adventure, delving into Baldwin's philosophy on life, self-reliance, and the pursuit of dreams against daunting odds.

Q: Who is James Baldwin in the context of sailing?

A: James Baldwin is a renowned sailor and author in the sailing community, known for his extensive solo voyages and contributions to sailing literature. Baldwin is particularly celebrated for his ability to undertake long-distance sailing adventures on a modest budget, demonstrating that such feats are accessible to individuals willing to embrace simplicity and the challenges of the sea. His works, including "Bound for Distant Seas," inspire and inform both seasoned sailors and those dreaming of casting off the dock lines for distant horizons.

Q: What can readers learn from "Bound for Distant Seas"?

A: Readers can learn a multitude of lessons from "Bound for Distant Seas," ranging from practical sailing techniques and preparations for extended voyages to deeper philosophical reflections on life's purpose and the value of pursuing one's dreams. Baldwin's narrative encapsulates the essence of adventure, the resilience required to overcome adversities at sea, and the transformative power of solitude and self-discovery. Additionally, the book serves as a guide and inspiration for those yearning to explore the world by sail, emphasizing the attainability of such ambitions with determination and resourcefulness.

Q: How does "Bound for Distant Seas" contribute to the genre of adventure and sailing literature?

A: "Bound for Distant Seas" is a significant contribution to the genre of adventure and sailing literature, offering a unique blend of thrilling sea voyages, insightful personal reflections, and practical sailing wisdom. Baldwin's articulate narration and deep connection with the sea enrich the reader's understanding of the complexities and rewards of solo sailing. His story adds a valuable perspective to the body of maritime literature, highlighting the indomitable spirit of human adventure and the profound lessons learned in the pursuit of one's passions on the open ocean.