Can Seafarers Conquer These 12 Epic New Year’s Resolutions?

You’re probably stuck right now in a port wrapped in cargo operations while 2024 is fast approaching. You may even forget about setting New Year’s resolutions due to your busy voyage.

As the new year approaches, it’s time to set your sights on achieving big goals and overcoming obstacles. 

Even if we get so busy sometimes, we still have those lazy moments where we have so much free time that we use it unproductively.

But those calm moments are also an opportunity to chart a course for personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways

• Set specific resolutions to grow professionally and personally as a seafarer in the new year.
• Take advantage of downtime at sea to read books, write journals, and study new skills. Be productive during long voyages.
• Embrace continuous learning and stay updated on maritime advancements to excel in your seafaring career. Knowledge is power.

Best New Year’s Resolutions for Seamen

These 12 resolutions are more than just goals; they are the compass points leading to a successful and fulfilling year ahead.

I’ve practiced some of them, and it helped me catapult into publishing 272 articles, including this one!

1. Learn a new skill.

Whether it’s knot tying, navigation, engine repairs, photography, video editing, coding, or language study, acquiring new abilities will make you a more well-rounded and capable crew member.

You may not become a master of a ship, but you can master those skills and become a master of your destiny.

You will also broaden your skillsets and be fit for other jobs besides seafaring. Best of all, it’s fun learning those new abilities.

2. Get in shape.

Long hours, odd shifts, and being confined onboard can take a toll physically. Make fitness a priority by doing strength training, cardio, and eating healthier.

Remember about the mind and body connection? If you take good care of your health, your mind will likely follow suit.

Seafaring demands both physical resilience and mental agility. By prioritizing fitness, you strengthen your body and fortify your mind against the challenges on board.

3. Improve money management.

Many of us struggle in this area, especially when it becomes evident during vacations, leading to a rush for loans to sustain our training.

In my dedicated Financial Management section, I’ve shared comprehensive money-handling tips to help you avoid falling into debt during your vacation. Check it out for detailed insights.

Here’s a quick advice inspired by Warren Buffett:

‘Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.’

This timeless wisdom can guide you towards more prudent financial habits.

In my case, I created a spreadsheet documenting my savings, expenses, and budget for the whole year. That way, I know where my money goes and if I’m overspending for something.

4. Contact loved ones regularly.

Seafaring takes you away from family and friends for extended periods. But with today’s technology, we can be with them through our gadgets with the help of the internet.

One of the benefits of regularly contacting our loved ones is that our kids will grow closer to us. It will also greatly help fight against temptation in any shape or form present with LDRR lovers (long-distance romantic relationships).

5. Document seafaring journeys.

Capture the essence of life at sea by documenting experiences through blogs, photos, or journals, sharing the unique seafaring story with the world.

I made the right choice before to document my seafaring journeys, especially my shore leaves! Right before social media travel flexing became a thing, I was going all over Europe to the best places on foot, bike, or train, and it was one of the best things I did.

6. Read more books.

I still can’t wrap my head around when my fellow seafarers say that 30 days is a boring voyage, especially without the internet. For me, it is the best voyage!

I get to read all the books I’ve been meaning to, and finishing them while watching the magnificent sunset is bliss.

Downtime at sea is perfect for reading. Aim to finish more books to widen your understanding in your field or just for entertainment.

7. Master efficient time management.

With the ticking of the ship’s clock, refine time management skills to enhance productivity and maintain a well-balanced work-life dynamic.

If you plan on doing most, if not all, of the resolutions listed here, you need super-efficient time management.

Efficient time management ensures smooth operations and creates space for personal well-being amidst the demands of sea life.

8. Establish connection with your crewmates.

Foster camaraderie by making time for open conversations to understand each other better. Offer support during difficult moments and celebrate successes together.

One of the best things about seafaring is getting to know people from other countries with different backgrounds.

And today’s technology helps us connect with them even if our contract is finished and we go on separate ways.

Establishing a connection with your crewmates opens up many opportunities in the future.

9. Promote mental health awareness.

This wasn’t an issue before, but now, it’s a thing that’s getting out of hand.

Break the stigma surrounding mental health at sea by promoting awareness, providing support systems, and encouraging open conversations about well-being.

Seafarers can be a tough nut to crack, but if they show signs of mental health problems, don’t ignore the cues.

The Mission to Seafarers tackles issues about the mental health of seafarers. If you have any doubts, try approaching them for expert help and advice.

10. Start writing.

Remember how I mentioned publishing 272 articles? It’s because I started writing. This 2024, consider picking up a pen and jotting down your thoughts.

Writing helps you think more clearly while organizing your ideas coherently. Don’t feel bad if your first draft sucks. I still feel like hiding my head under the bilge if ever someone reads my early articles.

Making writing a part of your New Year’s resolution can be a game-changer for you!

11. Embrace continuous learning.

The maritime industry evolves rapidly, with new technologies and regulations emerging constantly. Committing to continuous professional development as a seafarer is essential to succeed in this dynamic environment.

Attending conferences like SMM Hamburg or the International Maritime Organization (IMO) events allows seafarers to engage with the latest industry innovations and insights.

Navigate through the sea of knowledge by committing to ongoing education and staying updated on the latest maritime advancements.

12. Contribute to industry advancements.

Instead of bickering on some strangers on social media, your time will be well spent in sharing your expertise and experience.

Actively participate in the maritime community by sharing insights, engaging in forums, and contributing to discussions shaping the maritime industry’s future.

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The open ocean presents exciting challenges and opportunities for growth. We are more relaxed than we think, especially on long voyages.

We spend so much free time on movies, drinking sessions, and unproductive chit-chats that sometimes lead to fighting.

Seafarers who dedicate themselves to meaningful resolutions can achieve great heights in the new year. With focus and perseverance, you can conquer anything!

Can you commit to at least one of these New Year’s resolutions?

May the winds be in your favor.