In her TedTalk titled 'Stop Being a Bystander in Your Own Life,' sailing icon Tracy Edwards details the moment you go so far out to sea that the land disappears from the horizon, explaining the isolation and excitement something that everyone should experience once in their lifetime.
Edwards likens this experience to the uncertainty of life, in which she explains that her life "hasn't gone from A to B." After being expelled from school at the age of 16, Edwards' mom encouraged her to pursue skills outside of traditional education, and set off to backpack in Greece, where she spent time on boats. Eventually, Edwards' was taught to navigate a boat -- a skill that she picked up in a mere two days.
After realizing that a man would never trust a young woman to be a full-time navigator on his boat, Edwards created the first all-female crew, and competed in one of the toughest sailing competitions on the seas.
Navigating Your Own Path
Tracy Edwards Went from Misfit Teenager to Sailing Legend
Trend Themes
1. Isolation and Excitement of Going Out to Sea - Opportunity to create innovative experiences that simulate the isolation and excitement of being far out at sea.
2. Navigating a Non-linear Life Journey - Innovative approaches to mentorship and education that support individuals in navigating non-linear life paths.
3. Empowering Women in Male-dominated Industries - Opportunities for disruptive innovation in industries where women have been traditionally underrepresented or marginalized.
Industry Implications
1. Adventure Tourism - Revolutionizing the adventure tourism industry with unique experiences that replicate the isolation and excitement of being out at sea.
2. Personal Development and Coaching - Innovative mentoring and coaching programs to guide individuals in navigating non-linear life journeys.
3. Sports and Recreation - Disruptive innovations that challenge gender stereotypes and empower women in male-dominated sports and recreation industries.