We use the Gestalt theory for communicating with each other IN THE FLEET

[ GESTALT in modern German to mean the way a thing has been “placed,” or “put together.” There is no exact equivalent in English. … “Form” and “shape” are the usual translations; in psychology the word is often interpreted as “pattern” or “configuration.” ]

Hold on it’s not a cult thing it’s a communication protocol.

Here is how this protocol works:

Speak from your own experiences rather than giving advice or opinions

Use “I” statements instead of “You” statements –
IE: We sailed from A to B and … this is what happened to us
DON’T: “you should sail from A to B and you could do this … ”

Don’t speak in generalities  be specific share a relevant past experience – both good and bad.

PLEASE SHARE EXPERIENCES and FACTS  NOT  OPINIONS

 

 

Why do we use GESTALT ?

Everyone who is a skipper, captain, admiral, crew or master of his or her ship has a high level of authority, independence and leadership.

When opinions come to the surface there is a natural instinct to doubt, feel threatened, judge and to question “advice / opinions”.
As an example and to make this point look at how many FB postings, or comment sections on websites or even news sites
become a runaway freight train leading to huff and puff, figthclub, bruised egos and unanswered questions and arguments.

So since we are not a social media company and our KPI is not looking for screen time spent, we try to avoid getting sucked you into “discussions”

THE OCEAN Posse is about facts and experiences

Your experiences are important for the fleet and  vessels  will make decisions on your factual reports.

Advice given ( solicited or not ) by it’s very nature is tainted,  not validated, skweed and may even have an unforseen angle that has little actual informational value.

Even if you have made a mistake and are sharing that experience – that is valuable.

WE DO NOT … LIKE / DISLIKE / OMG HOW COULD YOU / WHY DID YOU NOT …  comment.

Yes it’s hard – after all FB has trained you to have opinions –  but this protocol is how you can help another vessel.
This way no one is judged and everone’s ego stays intact.

 The Gestalt Language Protocol is core to the OCEAN Posse  everyday communication strategy.

JUST THE FACTS PLEASE !

Gestalt communication emphasizes clarity, directness, and the avoidance of ambiguity, opinions, or insinuations. Here are some common examples of opinions or indirect statements (innuendo) that deviate from factual communication:

Opinion-Based Statements:

“I think this might work.”
Suggests uncertainty without providing evidence or a clear solution.

“It seems like this is the best option.”
Indicates personal preference rather than presenting concrete facts.

“In my opinion, this could be a good idea.”
Centers on subjective perspective rather than objective analysis.

“It feels like this approach would be effective.”
Relies on emotions or intuition rather than data or reasoning.

“This might be the right direction.”
Lacks definitive commitment or supporting facts.

Innuendo and Indirect Communication:

“Wouldn’t it be better if you handled it this way?”
Implies criticism or an alternative without explicitly stating it.

“Some people say this isn’t the right choice.”
Avoids taking responsibility for the statement by attributing it to others.

“I’m not saying it’s wrong, but…”
Suggests disagreement without openly stating it.

“Maybe you should reconsider.”
Hints at disapproval without clarity or evidence.

“Don’t you think this could cause problems?”
Suggests a potential issue without directly addressing or explaining it.

Replacements for Clear Communication:

Instead of vague or opinion-based language, use facts and concrete observations. Example:

Replace “this is a great anchorage” with
we anchored in 20 feet sheltered from prevelant winds at LAT LONG

Replace “It seems like this is the best option” with “This option outperformed others in our analysis.”

By focusing on facts, direct statements, and evidence, communication becomes more effective and actionable.