Taking the Helm: Lessons from the Lake

I spent the weekend with a group of amazing people from Coldwell Banker Advantage in Fayetteville, North Carolina, helping facilitate their 2026 Leadership Retreat. After two solid days of meaningful conversations, thoughtful reviews of last year’s challenges and successes, and exciting vision planning for the year ahead, it was time to unplug and set sail into the new year.

As we boarded the pontoon outside our weekend AirBnB along the shores of Lake Norman for a relaxing charter tour, we were greeted with a huge welcoming smile.

“Welcome aboard,” said Captain Isaiah. “Ready for a fun afternoon?”

His youthful exuberance was matched by his obvious skill and knowledge as he navigated the 26-foot vessel around the large lake northwest of Charlotte. As we took our spots and prepared for the ride, Isaiah quickly earned our attention and respect with his calm command of the boat.

“I’m your captain today. My name is Isaiah, and I’m here to ensure you enjoy a memorable experience on the lake.”

As we eased away from the dock, he walked us through the Coast Guard required safety instructions and made everyone comfortable with the local ship rules. Don’t jump in the water. Make yourselves comfortable. Have a great time.

Isaiah was clearly confident with the boat. He knew the lake, the surrounding areas, and the stories behind many of the impressive homes lining the shoreline. He was excited to share insider knowledge of famous residents and fun history about the man-made lake that boasts more than 525 miles of shoreline.

Leadership doesn’t always announce itself.
Sometimes it just takes the helm.

After 90 minutes on the lake in cold, chilly conditions, which gave us private domain of the water since no locals wanted to leave their heated homes, Isaiah guided us to a waterfront restaurant where we could go ashore, warm up, enjoy a libation and some snacks, and prepare for the journey back.

The music on the ride home was perfect. “Black Water” by the Doobie Brothers. “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis. “Gimme Three Steps” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. We were all singing along, creating a force field of positivity to shield us from the cold wind in our faces. Then Cindy grabbed control of the playlist and cranked up “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills, and Nash, and we all fell into chorus.

“So I’m sailing for tomorrow, my dreams are a-dying
And my love is an anchor tied to you
Tied with a silver chain
I have my ship
And all her flags are a-flying
She is all that I have left
And music is her name.”

David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash

As we neared our cove, Isaiah cut the engine and pointed out a bald eagle perched atop one of the pilings. He shared how rare it was to see the majestic bird simply ruling its roost. We smiled, snapped a few photos, and soaked in the moment, grateful to be among good friends on a beautiful January day with a year full of opportunity ahead.

I’m not saying our group will be his favorite charter ever, but at least for now, we were his favorite of this year. Even though he was an employee of Carolina Cruising Charters, he didn’t have to have a great time with us on the lake.

He got to.

Opportunity, Not Obligations

We don’t have to be leaders. We get to.

We don’t have to serve customers and clients in our communities. We get to.

We don’t have to show up each day ready to deliver great service. We get to.

Ask yourself, what do I get to do this year?

Let’s drop the throttle when we’re headed into the wind. Let’s leverage the power we have inside. And let’s ease back when the wind and current are at our backs so we can enjoy the ride.

If we follow Captain Isaiah’s lead, we have an incredible opportunity to cruise smoothly into the new year.

“Aye, aye, Cap’n Isaiah. Thanks for the ride.”

Let’s get to work in 2026.