Layne Beachley - 'I’m a helper, not a healer'

Explicit

"You Can't Stop the Waves, But You Can Learn How to Surf"

I've used this Jon Kabat-Zinn quote countless times in my presentations, conversations and keynotes with leaders, with an image of Layne Beachley, seven-time world champion surfer.

It is a wonderful quote and a beautiful image of an athlete in their element.

I understand enough about Layne’s story to know that both the element itself, the surf, and life when she isn’t in her element, have been deeply challenging.

Yes, her courage in competition was legendary. But it's a different kind of bravery she demonstrates now - the willingness to cross that bridge of vulnerability. The truth is clear: there's no authenticity without vulnerability, and no vulnerability without courage.

There are people you meet, and you feel good about them. Then there  ...