Let's Go Surfing
This week’s Rivr Notes is about learning, laughing, and growing through the unexpected joy of surfing.
I’ve always been a firm believer in challenging yourself—stepping into something new, getting outside your comfort zone, and embracing the process of learning. Whether it’s personal or professional growth, keeping a curious, growth-oriented mindset is how we continue to evolve.
Recently, I had the chance to live that philosophy in a whole new way. My wife, our two teenage boys, and I spent a week at Surf Synergy, a surf camp in Jacó, Costa Rica. I’d surfed a handful of times over the years—just enough to know I didn’t know much at all. But I was drawn to it: the connection surfers have with the ocean, the way they talk about the sport like it’s not just about riding waves, but about being part of something bigger. I was curious, ready to learn, and ready to be humbled. (Spoiler: I was)
More Than Just Surfing
From the start, it was clear that Surf Synergy offered so much more than simply teaching us how to ride a wave. It was about helping us learn and grow through an experience that combined skill-building with personal discovery—a much bigger journey than I expected. A key part of that journey was how thoughtfully they matched each of us with a dedicated instructor for the week. Our instructors worked with us individually, tailoring guidance to our experience level, pushing us where needed, and helping us make steady progress each day. But what truly set Surf Synergy apart was how the learning didn’t stop when we stepped off the board.
What really made the experience unique was how Surf Synergy created a full wellness immersion that went far beyond the surfboard. Each day included yoga to help with balance, flexibility, and focus. Meditation and breath work taught us how to stay calm and centered, whether we were on the board or simply pausing between sets. We embraced cold plunges and sauna sessions that pushed us in different ways—building resilience, supporting recovery, and challenging us to stay present. And throughout the week, we were nourished with incredibly healthy, thoughtfully prepared meals, full of local fruits, vegetables, seafood, and fresh ingredients that fueled us for long, active days. It wasn’t just about surfing; it was about overall well-being.
Another thoughtful part of the experience was how they wrapped up many of the days: with video review sessions that helped bring the learning full circle. After each surf outing, we’d gather to watch footage of ourselves on the waves. Sometimes we’d celebrate a breakthrough; other times we’d laugh at the moments that didn’t go quite as planned. Either way, these reviews gave us valuable insights we could apply the next day—and they made it so rewarding to see just how much progress we were making.
The Humor (and Humility) of the Learning Curve
What stood out to me throughout the week was how much joy there was in the process itself. My first day included one of those classic moments: I caught a wave early and thought, Hey, maybe I’ve cracked the code!—only to have the next few waves remind me I had plenty more to learn. But that was the beauty of it. Every slip or splash came with a smile and often a laugh—whether it was with my instructor, who had clearly seen it all before, or my fellow beginners who were sharing the same adventure.
There’s a camaraderie that forms when you’re learning together. You cheer each other on, swap tips, and celebrate every small win. And as we supported one another, I realized that surfing, like so many challenges in life, isn’t just about the solo ride. It’s about community, connection, and sharing the journey.
Working With Mother Nature
Those connections extended beyond people. Surfing taught me to connect with the ocean itself. I learned quickly that it isn’t about fighting the waves—it’s about working with them. Early on, I tried to muscle my way through the break, determined to get into position fast. Meanwhile, my instructor would glide out smoothly, timing everything just right and letting the water work for him.
The more I observed, the more I saw how much surfing demands patience, awareness, and adaptability. No two days on the ocean were the same. Some mornings brought clean, gentle sets; others were choppier or full of shifting currents. I learned to pause, to watch, and to move when the timing was right. The more I let go of trying to control the ocean and started learning from it, the better—and more fun—the experience became.
Costa Rica: The Perfect Backdrop
And all of this unfolded in the breathtaking setting of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. We were surrounded by lush rainforest, vibrant flowers, tropical birds, and the rhythm of rain showers that would roll through and give way to bright sunshine. Every day was a reminder of how powerful and peaceful nature can be—and how lucky we were to be immersed in it. The setting alone made the experience feel truly transformational.
Ready to Ride Your Next Challenge?
As I reflect on this experience, I’m reminded why I’ve always believed so deeply in the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones. Surfing wasn’t just about learning to balance on a board or read the ocean—it was about being willing to be a beginner again. To laugh at myself. To stay curious. To embrace both the wipeouts and the wins. What I took away from the week wasn’t just a new skill, but a renewed appreciation for how much we grow when we lean into the process and trust the journey.
So here’s my invitation: what’s your next challenge? What’s calling you to stretch, to learn, to ride that next wave of personal growth? Maybe it’s surfing (and if so, I’d be thrilled to connect you with the incredible team at Surf Synergy). Or maybe it’s something else that’s been sitting on your bucket list, waiting for you to say yes.
Whatever it is, I encourage you to dive in. Be okay with being a beginner. Enjoy the learning curve. And savor the ride—because that’s where the real transformation happens.
See you next week,
Brent, your Rivr Guide
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