When we paddle out into the ocean, surfboard beneath us, and waves rolling in with rhythm and power, we aren’t just riding water—we’re engaging with life’s lessons. Surfing has a magical way of clearing the mind and revealing deeper truths about how we navigate our world. One profound insight that surfing offers is about focus and vision—where you look is where you’ll go.
This lesson became clear to me after reflecting on a series of surfing experiences. Some days, the waves were bigger and faster, demanding full attention. In one instance, I paddled for a steep wave, caught it, and hesitated, overwhelmed by its steepness. I wiped out. Another time, I saw another surfer in my path and nearly collided because my focus was entirely on avoiding them.
Contrast that with later sessions where I consciously adjusted my focus. On steep waves, instead of fixating on the drop, I directed my gaze toward where I wanted to ride. The result? A smooth glide along the wave’s face, full of speed and flow. Similarly, when encountering another surfer, I focused on navigating around them, and the near-miss turned into a graceful maneuver.
So, what changed? My focus.
The Power of Focus and Vision in Surfing—and Life
In surfing, as in life, your focus determines your direction. Beginner surfers often fixate on their board or the water directly in front of them, which inadvertently leads them to places they don’t want to go—like straight down the wave or into the water. Experienced surfers, however, look ahead, scanning the wave’s line, identifying steep sections, and spotting potential obstacles. This broader view allows them to anticipate and adapt, riding the wave with confidence and purpose.
This principle mirrors how we approach challenges and goals in life. If you focus solely on potential problems, doubts, or fears, you’re more likely to feel stuck or overwhelmed. Conversely, when your attention is on the solution or the outcome you desire, you naturally move toward it.
Practical Steps to Align Your Vision
Now, let’s look for the focus into your life! Grab your journal and reflect on the following prompts:
By honing your focus and staying true to your vision, you’ll find that even life’s steepest waves become opportunities for growth and flow. Paddle into your goals with clarity, courage, and the wisdom of the waves.
Thank you for reading!
Stay happy, healthy and salty,
Lan
xxx
This article was inspired by Episode 60 of Lan’s German podcast, “gerngesund Podcast”. In this episode, Lan shares insights from her surfing experiences, exploring how focus and vision—both on the waves and in life—can shape the way we navigate challenges and pursue our goals.
The wisdom of focus and vision isn’t just for surfing—it’s a practice we embrace deeply during our retreats at Women of Water. Through surf sessions, mindfulness practices, and shared experiences, we help you cultivate clarity, align with your purpose, and find your flow both on and off the waves. Ready to explore how these lessons can transform your life? Join us at one of our transformative retreats!