Stepping Fully Into Your Role At Sea And In Leadership!

“Attention, Ladies and Gentlemen—5, 4, 3, 2, 1 . . . let’s go.”

And here we are. The Clipper Race is about to begin. https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com
There’s an electric energy in the air fueled by final safety checks, last-minute trainings, and saying goodbye to family and friends who’ve come to cheer us on. We’ve just completed another PIE assessment (Preparation, Initial Action, and Equipment) for scenarios ranging from collisions and fires to flooding and heavy weather.

The week before departure includes registration, a full day of sailing to ensure the boat and crew are ready, man overboard drills, and rehearsing maneuvers like hoisting and lowering sails. And of course, the big departure celebration.

I’ll be sailing Leg 1 of an 11-month circumnavigation of the globe, alongside crew members - some completing a few legs, others the entire race. I’m joining for Leg 1 of 8, sailing from the UK to Puerto Sherry, Spain (about 8 to 10 days of sailing), where we’ll pause for a three-day boat check to ensure everything is working properly. Then, we’ll set sail on a 33-day ocean crossing to Punta del Este, Uruguay.

Step by Step, Evolution by Evolution

In sailing, every evolution (maneuver) builds on the last. Think of it: you learn to hoist sails, then to trim lines, and eventually, to helm confidently in rough weather. Through repetition and reflection, these skills become second nature.

Leadership functions in a similar way. When I coach clients transitioning into new roles, we focus on small, deliberate adjustments, tackling one behavior at a time. Although progress might appear slow, these purposeful steps result in lasting change.

Whether you’re on the deck or in a leadership role, real growth happens one evolution at a time.

Stepping Fully Into Your Role

You made it—new job, new promotion, new challenge. And now comes the moment to lead.. This is an exciting time, and it calls for your full presence, intention, and commitment.  It’s not about having every answer on day one; it’s about showing up fully from the start. 

One client I worked with was applying for a senior role at a health insurance company, a department new to him.  To prepare, he developed a 30-page plan outlining how he would lead the department. That detailed preparation helped him not only secure the role but also succeed in it. He stepped in fully from the start.

I often meet clients six months into a new role, just beginning to see what’s holding them back.  Maybe it’s executive presence, navigating peer dynamics, or adapting to shifting expectations. That’s precisely when we partner to strengthen what’s working and adjust what isn’t. After all, stepping into your role isn’t just about the first day—it’s about every day after that.

Holding the Helm

As I write this, I’ve spent more than a year training for the Clipper race, mostly in weekly sessions and shorter sails. Aside from a two-day practice event in May, I’ve never raced under pressure.  

Now, I’m here, part of a transatlantic crew, competing against nine other teams. I, too, must fully step into my role. Just like my clients, I’m drawing on my training and preparation. I’m remembering the PIE assessments. I’m listening to the countdown. And I’m holding the helm with full attention and trust in my growth so far.

Whether on the ocean or in the office, stepping fully into your role means being ready when the moment comes. And committing with everything you’ve got.

Let’s Talk​
Interested in discussing leadership, role transitions, or how we support high-impact leaders?
📩 Reach out to me at [email protected] or visit www.desormeauxconsulting.com