I'd say your issue is that you're surfing side-on in a "poo man" stance.
Your back arm is behind you, your butt is over the rail and you're not extending when your friend says "get up to the top" 🙂
Turn your body so your hips and shoulders are facing the nose and bring your back arm forward so your hands are over each rails, then stand up and stack on the front foot 👍
Look at the surf skate and Bosu ball drills for more info.
Replied on A quick cautionary story:When I surf ...
22 Sep 19:45
Annoyingly, there's the possibility of some swell tomorrow, but I can't get back into the water until the stitches are out ☹️