Sailing and Business: Balancing Principles with Adaptability
Posted on August 08, 2025 by Ruoyu Bao, One of Thousands of Business Coaches on Noomii.
What sailing taught me about leading in diverse business environments — and how to adapt while staying true to core principles.
As a casual sailor, I often crew for different boats. Each has its own quirks, and every skipper runs things differently. I need to learn and adapt quickly each time. Yet the principles of sailing remain the same — and that’s how an experienced sailor can “learn the ropes” (literally) fast.
The same applies in the business world. Every company is unique, but there’s always common ground to be found. The key is to:
1️⃣ Identify the guiding principles that cut across organizations and even industries
2️⃣ Recognize the unique context of each company, team, or situation that calls for a tailored approach
3️⃣ Combine the two effectively to maximize impact
Whether in sailing or in business, success lies in balancing timeless fundamentals with the flexibility to adapt to each unique environment. That’s a skill every leader — and every sailor — can cultivate.
