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Writer's pictureMarcellus Louroza

Shackleton's leadership: Shackleton planned the possible but he accomplished the IMPOSSIBLE! 

Updated: May 3


Book cover with ship stranded in ice
Book Endurance - Alfred Lansing

Wanna talk about leadership? Then leave ppt, clichés and marketing phrases aside!

Let’s share stories of ordinary people who did extraordinary things as leaders!


A little bit more than 20 years ago I was lucky enough to have an unknown book on my lap. 

This book had a huge impact on my development as a leader. So, here is one of my favorite leadership stories…


The book titled "Endurance", written by Alfred Lansing. 


… was a polar explorer who led three British expeditions to Antarctica in the period known as the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.


Shackleton, despite NOT having achieved ANY of his objectives on the Antarctic continent, is remembered not for his failures on expeditions but for the WAY in which he SAVED 27 men under his responsibility in a outradours cirscunstance. He forged his leadership on the ice, defying the odds and leaving an everlasting legacy in the lives of 27 people.


Shackleton PLANNED the possible… 

                                                              …but he simply accomplished the IMPOSSIBLE! 


Particularly, I take 3 lessons from Shackleton's leadership:


1 - Leadership is defined by actions, not just achievements:

This underscores the importance of character, determination, and compassion in leadership, beyond mere accomplishments.


2 - Adaptability and resilience are key traits of effective leaders: 

  Despite setbacks and failures, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the well-being of his team and found innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. 


3 - Prioritizing the well-being of the team: 

 He made difficult decisions and sacrifices to ensure the safety and survival of his crew, highlighting the importance of selflessness and putting the needs of others before one's own. 


Shackleton planned the possible… but he accomplished the IMPOSSIBLE! 


An inevitable question arises in my mind…


To what extent should our personal agenda be negotiable in favor of safeguarding our team's well-being??”

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