Ernest Shackleton’s Guidelines for Success

Famed explorer Ernest Shackleton set sail for Antarctica in August 1914, hoping to become the first man to trek to the South Pole. After his ship, the Endurance, became hopelessly icebound, he led 27 crewmembers back to civilization in a miraculous two-year journey. Morrissey & Company holds the leadership lessons of Shackleton in high regard as a model for our agency.

• Never lose sight of the ultimate goal, and focus energy on short-term objectives. Err on the side of action.
• Set a personal example with visible, memorable symbols and behaviors.
• Instill optimism and self-confidence but stay grounded in reality.
• Take care of yourself: maintain your stamina and let go of guilt.
• Reinforce the team message constantly: "We are one, we live and die together."
• Minimize status differences and insist on courtesy and mutual respect.
• Master conflict. Deal with anger in small doses, engage dissidents and avoid needless power struggles.
• Find something to celebrate and something to laugh about.
• Be willing to take the Big Risk. Encourage smart risk taking, and trial-and-error learning.
• Never give up. There will always be another move.