Lessons on Zeewolde's Waters

It was evening, but still light. Calm. Quiet. The boat lay there, untouched — except for having the rainwater from the past few days poured out of it manually. Just like that, abandoned and full of potential.

That evening was the final one of a three-day journey, an unusual gathering called the “Reputation Retreat,” attended by around a dozen curious minds: software developers, consultants, freelancers, and even Java Champions. Our goal? To learn how to build personal reputation, boost visibility, and truly shape our own careers — so we can have a bigger impact on others’ success and define the future together.

A Performance, A Reminder

We had just returned from a small theater, still buzzing from a powerful performance of Brazilian music, interpreted by a group of professional musicians. Captivating to the last note — and even more impressive when we learned it was their first time performing together. Just one rehearsal before the show. Yet, as experienced professionals, they quickly found common ground. Rhythm. Harmony. Communication without many words. When pros work together, the rest flows.

One Boat, One Goal

Still thinking about the performance, we stood in front of the boat, wanting to make the most of our last chance before sunset. We launched it and three of us boarded. Slowly at first, we searched for direction. Based on where we sat, our roles naturally fell into place. I was in the back, guiding, since I had the best view. In front sat an experienced software architect — who also knew his way around the water.

Without many words, we sped up. Smooth motion. Instant synchronicity. It felt just like our musical inspiration from earlier: everyone knowing their part without needing to explain. We reached the end of the canal and turned back.

A Second Round, a Deeper Lesson

With time before the sun disappeared, we went out again — with a new team composition. This time, someone with less boating experience joined us. At first, we weren’t in sync. We drifted into water lilies. Moments later? We nearly tipped the whole boat. What a sight that would’ve been — three software professionals suddenly swimming instead of paddling! A well-known (show)man on the shore had his camera ready, hoping to catch exactly that.

But we didn’t give him the show he anticipated.

Just in time, we managed to stabilize. A quick conversation followed: clear rules, defined roles. More communication. Everyone knew how and when to steer, paddle, and coordinate. The second leg went without any more surprises. This time, we docked excited, safe, and with unforgettable memories in hand.

Same Project, Same Boat

So, what did we learn?

When seasoned professionals work together, they nearly instinctively understand each other — it takes fewer words to build something great. Like the artists. Like our first boat ride.

But: bring someone newer on board, and you’ll need clarity. Clear rules. Open communication. Defined roles and shared vision. Yes, you might go off track at first, maybe even tip the boat — but that risk is worth it. Because syncing up, figuring it out, and moving forward together? That’s where the joy begins.

And in both rides, we had one thing in common: we were in the same boat. No other option but to work together. Like in real software projects.

So — when was the last time you were “in the same boat” with someone?

How did it feel? Did you paddle in sync — or nearly tip?

Next time you’re starting a new project with others — stop for a moment, and think: have we defined our roles? Have we agreed on communication? Then, and only then, paddle forward. Together.