Maximize Fun and Functionality On Board
The yachting industry is as equally exciting as it is exhausting, if you are a member of the crew. We’ve got a few tips and tricks to ensure that you are at constant peak performance, and you still manage to sneak some fun time for yourself.
Whether you’re manning the deck, helping out in the engine room or working in the kitchen, time management is key in ensuring your output and efficiency is kept at maximum. This will earn you favor with the captain who might consider you for future jobs. There are a number of different ways to achieve this:
Firstly, get a good night sleep. Your body is put through strain from being on your feet all day and it needs the adequate amount of time to rejuvenate itself. A full (and sober) night sleep coupled with a clear head will make getting up and getting going much easier. You will find yourself breezing through your daily chores and responsibilities. The sooner you get started, the sooner you will have everything done so you can take time for yourself. Besides; there is nothing more unprofessional than dozing off on the job. It will annoy your fellow crew as they are your teammates and you are making everyone look bad as a unit.
Ever heard the saying, “those who fail to prepare prepare to fail”? Well I can tell you that the lack of planning, prioritising and organising yourself and your tasks is a huge professional mistake. Making a to-do list is a great way to shift your mind into a productive gear. Your daily tasks will become clear in your head and being able to check them off is a great self-motivational tool. If you feel like you’re getting things done and contributing to the crew, you will find yourself doing more because you know your work matters.
Helpful hint: get the work you hate out of the way first so you can send the rest of the day doing the less labour intense and stressful.
Put yourself first. A lot of captains and yacht owners might not like this opinion because they believe the job is the most important thing and the reason you are on board. This isn’t completely wrong. However, studies show that professionals who experience depression, lethargy and other mood related ailments are up to 40% less productive than they normally would be. I don’t need tell you that if you aren’t eating right, sleeping well or exercising your body regularly you start to feel less than optimal on the job.
Take care of yourself, if for no other reason than to make sure you are performing at your best on board.
Hint: keeping trinkets and home comforts on board will help you get through the spells of homesickness and longing.
Lastly, delegate. Captains; the crew is there to help you. Chief Stews; you can’t do it all on your own. More hands make less work so lean on the team you have with you for support. You are all, quite literally, in the same boat so work together.It will only bring you closer as a team.