Seaman'fluencer

28/06/2024

25/06/2024

International Day of the Seafarer

22/06/2024

"SUCCESS is due to our stretching to the challenges of life.

FAILURE comes when we shrink from them."

John C. Maxwell

21/06/2024

"A goal is a dream with a deadline."

Napoleon Hill

20/06/2024

"Change is inevitable. Growth is optional."
John C. Maxwell

19/06/2024

"You big opportunity may be right where you are now." - Napoleon Hill

18/06/2024

"Do not wait; the time will never be 'just right'. Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command and better tools will be found as you go along." - Napoleon Hill

18/06/2024

"The greatest mistake we make is living in constant fear that we will make one."

- John C. Maxwell

17/06/2024

"Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others." - John C. Maxwell

14/06/2024

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13/06/2024

05/06/2024

Life is a challenge, don't give up.

"Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it."

~ Micheal Jordan

In life, we will go through many challenges that will strengthen us over time. In my profession as a seafarer, I went through different levels of challenges. First, when I was in college, I only had enough money for school, including all expenses such as food, transportation allowance, and projects. I went through all that until I completed my course in college. It wasn't easy, but I managed it. I improved my studies so that when I had the opportunity to earn enough, I would never experience such a difficult financial situation again.

It was the same when I was in Manila, taking chances in applying to manning agencies. Waking up early in the morning, enduring fatigue and hunger. Hoping at the end of the day, I would be accepted or even called for an interview. There were times when I almost begged for someone to lend me some money while I was struggling to pay monthly rent for a bed spacer boarding house and my daily expenses. Those challenges led me to grow as an individual. The self-discipline I learned since I was part of the Naval ROTC back in college days, I used it in my daily struggle. That discipline in following the set time and day, wearing the proper attire, and being respectful to the people I meet and socialize with.

When I first boarded the ship, I had a bit of a hard time adjusting to the work setup, the weather, and the people I worked with. My first week and month at work were challenging, adjusting to the time and workmates.

The seafarer's job is sometimes easy; we were doing the same job over and over again. The work on the ship is never-ending; only the contract. So, it's better to bring a lot of patience. The only thing that was difficult sometimes was getting along with crewmates. Different attitudes and personalities. The weather is also part of the challenge because we were traveling at sea; sometimes the weather was good, a sunny day. Sometimes, we would encounter strong winds and big waves; the worst part was sometimes there was a typhoon. We were also sometimes enduring a hot climate or below-zero temperature, a snowstorm. I also got used to it in the long run. After all, this is my chosen profession.

One of the biggest challenges I faced in life was when I became a father. There is no manual for being a parent, especially being a father. As a father, everyone expects you to provide for the needs of the family: having a roof above your head, food on the table, and clothes to protect from all types of weather, providing comfort. These are some of the basic needs of a small community consisting of a father, mother, and children; it is called a family. You must lead your family to become good examples in the community they belong to and become law-abiding citizens. It takes a lot of courage and determination to be a father, with the desire to give your family a good life, a better future, and happiness. It is a challenging and rewarding experience.

Despite the challenges in life that were given to me, I maintained a positive mindset. Sometimes, I also felt discouraged and frustrated, but I focused more on the better things that could happen. I didn't let fear drown me into the depths of the ocean. I kept having a positive outlook on life to achieve my dream. The trials that were thrown at me did not become obstacles; instead, I made them stepping stones so that I could reach wherever I wanted to go in life.

Navigating through life challenges propelled by my passion and potential, I discovered a life driven by purpose. I became stronger and wiser, and even if it is difficult and tiring, giving up is never an option for me.

I want to be part of something bigger than myself.

I want to create an impact on the world and transform people's lives.

Francis B. David

Life at Sea: 3000 Days,
A Millennial Seafarer's Journey

Love, David Family Seaman'fluencer Coach FrancisD