Why kiting success rarely follows a straight line
Let’s be honest: kitesurfing is magical. The freedom, the adrenaline, the perfect balance of wind, water, and skill—it’s an unmatched experience. But let’s also be real: success in kiting (or life, for that matter) is rarely smooth. Progress isn’t a straight line; it’s more like a winding path with detours, setbacks, and the occasional faceplant.
It’s easy to scroll through Instagram and see kiters nailing jumps, cruising effortlessly, and living their best lives. What you don’t see? The missed landings, the epic wipeouts, or the hours spent frustrated on the beach because the wind didn’t show up. Here’s the truth: every kiter faces challenges. And that’s not just normal—it’s necessary.
The reality of progress: The drunk seagull effect
When you start kitesurfing, it feels like there’s a simple checklist:
Learn kite control.
Nail your water starts.
Ride upwind.
Start jumping.
Boom, you’re a kitesurfing legend. Right? Not even close. In reality, progress looks less like a straight path and more like a drunk seagull trying to land. It’s messy, unpredictable, and often ridiculous. One day, you’re landing jumps with ease; the next, you’re wiping out so hard you consider switching to paddleboarding.
Every successful kiter has been there. The truth is, the journey is full of:
Setbacks and Failures: You’ll crash—a lot. But each crash teaches you something new. Missed a landing? You’re fine-tuning your timing. Got dragged through the water? You’re learning to manage gusty conditions. These moments aren’t failures; they’re part of the process.
Detours and Delays: Sometimes, the wind doesn’t cooperate, or your session doesn’t go as planned. These detours can be frustrating, but they often lead to unexpected insights or even a chance to appreciate the simpler joys of being out on the water.
Plateaus: After a streak of progress, you might feel stuck. This isn’t a bad thing; it’s your body and mind consolidating what you’ve learned. Progress will come again—just stay consistent.
Why setbacks make you stronger
Here’s the thing: if kitesurfing were easy, it wouldn’t be nearly as rewarding. The thrill of landing your first jump or mastering a new trick comes precisely because you’ve worked for it. The struggles, the crashes, and the frustration are what make the wins so much sweeter.
Each setback adds depth to your journey. It’s not about avoiding mistakes; it’s about learning from them and coming back stronger. Every gust of wind, every failed trick, and every salty faceplant is shaping you into a better kiter.
How to keep moving forward
Progress may not be linear, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep moving. Here’s how to stay motivated when things get tough:
Celebrate Small Wins: Landed a jump? Stayed upwind in tricky conditions? Give yourself credit. Small victories add up.
Mix Things Up: Try a new spot, focus on a different trick, or switch it up with a laid-back downwinder. Variety keeps things fresh.
Remember Your “Why”: Whether it’s the thrill, the connection to nature, or simply the joy of flying, reconnect with what got you hooked in the first place.
Cut Yourself Some Slack: Even the best kiters have bad sessions. Progress takes time, and that’s okay.
The journey is the reward
At the end of the day, kitesurfing isn’t about perfection. It’s about the process: the crashes, the breakthroughs, and everything in between. Success may not follow a straight line, but that’s what makes it worth chasing.
So the next time you’re struggling with a trick or feeling stuck, take a deep breath, laugh it off, and remember: even the messy days are part of the ride.
xox Berit