In surfing, set waves are large waves that come in groups of at least two, and usually six or seven.

These “set waves” are the best waves of a set (how’s that for a groundbreaking explanation?). If you catch one, you’re typically rewarded with more wave power and a longer ride.

Sometimes called a “set wave feeling,” surfers describe the amazing high from catching their set waves.

But here’s the thing: you have to be really patient for the set of waves that you will be ready to catch. It means a lot of preparation. A lot of letting other waves go.

And it means spending a lot of time NOT catching them. There is time spent paddling out. There are hours sitting in the lineup, not catching any waves.

Some days the weather is crappy.

There might be a day with no set waves at all.

And yet, if you happen to find yourself at a good surfing beach on any given day, they’ll be out there. They’ll show up and be sitting on those boards, talking to each other.

Watching. Paddling. Preparing.

Because even if they don’t come today, or tomorrow, as long as you seek them, they will find you. You just have to be there.