For surf I like a little give so I stop around 12 to 13 on a 12 to 15 board — For flat water or if the deck feels a bit bouncy under a bigger paddler go up to 14 or 15. If you do not have a second gauge a quick feel check helps. Tap the deck with your knuckles and press with your thumb near the handle and it should feel crisp not spongy. Best move is to borrow a known good gauge once set your board to the target then mark your pump where that is but then simple.
My trick is a recurring calendar block called People Time Tue/Thu 6:30, non-negotiable like meds. I keep a tiny cheat card in my wallet with two openers—what brought you here?
and got any newbie tips?—so my brain doesn't stall. Two-invite rule: if we chat, I immediately suggest next week or a Saturday coffee; if they dodge twice, I forget them like a browser tab. Lay out shoes and water bottle by the door so inertia loses.
