The proverb “Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors” is an African proverb that has become a well-known saying worldwide. The adage is helpful as a way to encourage people to be resilient and persevere through challenging situations.

The proverb means that if someone only experiences easy, comfortable situations and never faces any difficulties, they won’t develop the skills needed to handle challenging problems in the future. Just as a sailor only becomes skilled by navigating rough waters, people can become stronger, more resilient, and more capable by facing and overcoming challenges.

The origin of the proverb needs to be clarified, but most attribute it to African or West African folklore. However, now you can find variations of the saying in many cultures, including English, Spanish, and French. In English, a similar phrase is “Adversity makes strange bedfellows,” which means that people who face challenges together can become close allies, even if they are very different.

Overall, the proverb “Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors” emphasizes the importance of facing challenges and overcoming adversity to develop the skills and resilience necessary to succeed.

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Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors

— African Proverb

You Can Overcome Any Challenges

Reflecting on the quote, “Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors,” when facing adversity can be necessary for several reasons.

Firstly, the quote can help shift our perspective and remind us that challenges and difficulties are a natural and necessary part of life. When we encounter obstacles or setbacks, it can be easy to become discouraged or feel like we are failing. However, remembering that facing adversity is how we develop the skills, we need to succeed can help us stay motivated and focused on the bigger picture.

Secondly, the quote can encourage us to embrace challenges and see them as opportunities for growth. Rather than viewing adversity as a setback, we can use it as a chance to learn new things, develop new skills, and become better equipped to handle future challenges.

Finally, reflecting on the quote can help us stay resilient and persistent in facing difficulties. When we remember that overcoming obstacles is how we develop our strengths and skills, we are more likely to remain committed to our goals and push through difficult times.

In short, reflecting on the quote, “Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors,” can help us stay focused, motivated, and resilient when facing adversity and can allow us to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development.

Embrace Life’s Storms as Training Grounds

In a world that often feels like an unpredictable ocean, it’s easy to wish for smooth sailing—clear skies, calm waters, and no obstacles in sight. But let’s remember this: Smooth seas don’t make skillful sailors, and we can’t direct the wind. However, we can adjust our sails. The storms, the roaring waves, and the challenges test us and shape us into more robust, resilient individuals.

If you’re going through a tough time right now, consider it your sea of opportunity. Each wave that crashes against you molds you into a more skillful life navigator. Your struggles are your training ground, equipping you with the emotional and mental toolkit you’ll need for future voyages.

And you’re not alone. Just as sailors have their crew, you too have people who care for you, resources that can guide you, and an inner compass—your values, skills, and resilience—that will help you find your way. Reach out, connect, and embrace the learning experiences that come from life’s challenges.

So, as you face your storms, remember to adjust your sails but never your goals. Strive to become not just a passenger in life but a skillful sailor. Look your challenges in the eye and say, “I am bigger than you. You may rock my boat, but you won’t sink me.”

The ocean of life is full of endless possibilities. Please don’t shy away from its depths or its rough patches. Instead, chart a course through them. You’ll emerge not just skillful but also full of stories, wisdom, and resilience that smooth seas could have never taught you. Sail on!

Updated: 10/28/2023