Facing the Giants: Humility and Resilience in Business (and Life) (inspired by Ernest Shackleton)
Hey everyone, let's talk about something crucial for navigating the ever-changing tides of business – humility. Now, some of you might be thinking humility and the cutthroat world of business don't exactly go hand in hand. But hear me out. As the legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton, who famously led an expedition through treacherous Antarctic conditions, once said: "Human effort is not futile, but man fights against the giant forces of nature in a spirit of humility. One has a sense of dependence on a higher power." His words hold a powerful message, not just for braving blizzards, but for tackling the challenges we face in the boardroom and beyond.
Think about it. Have you ever encountered a leader who was so focused on being right, that they couldn't acknowledge a mistake or consider a different approach? This kind of arrogance can breed resentment within a team and ultimately hinder progress. A humble leader, on the other hand, is open to feedback, willing to learn from setbacks, and recognizes the value of each team member's contribution.
1. Florence Nightingale and the Crimean War:
Context: Nightingale was a pioneer of modern nursing during the Crimean War (1853-1856).
Humility in Action: Despite her upper-class background and medical training, Nightingale recognized the dire conditions in military hospitals. She didn't shy away from the dirty work, rolled up her sleeves, and implemented sanitation measures that dramatically reduced death rates. Her humility in focusing on the well-being of soldiers over her status is a powerful example.
2. Nelson Mandela and South Africa's Reconciliation:
Context: Mandela spent 27 years imprisoned for fighting against apartheid in South Africa. Upon his release, he became the country's first black president.
Humility in Action: Mandela could have sought revenge or retribution for the injustices he faced. However, he prioritized national reconciliation and forgiveness, leading the country towards a more peaceful future. His humility in focusing on unity over division serves as a powerful lesson in leadership.
3. The Manhattan Project and the Atomic Bomb:
Context: The Manhattan Project was a top-secret effort during World War II to develop the atomic bomb.
Humility in Action: The project involved a vast array of scientists from different backgrounds and disciplines. Their success relied on collaboration, open communication, and the willingness of each individual to share their knowledge for a larger purpose. This focus on teamwork and a shared goal exemplifies the power of humility in achieving breakthroughs.
Now, let's bridge this to the business world. Imagine a product development team facing a major setback with their new prototype. A leader clinging to their original vision might push forward with a flawed product. However, a humble leader will acknowledge the issue, listen to the team's concerns, and be open to revising the approach. This humility allows for innovation and ultimately leads to a better product.
So, how can we cultivate a more humble and resilient approach in our workplaces? Here are a few actionable tips:
Embrace a growth mindset. Believe that your skills and knowledge can always develop, and encourage your team to do the same.
Actively seek feedback. Don't be afraid to ask colleagues, clients, and even subordinates for their honest opinions.
Celebrate team wins. Recognize that success is rarely a solo effort, and acknowledge the contributions of everyone involved.
Learn from mistakes. View setbacks as opportunities for growth, and encourage your team to do the same.
Lead by example. Demonstrate humility in your actions, be open to feedback, and be willing to admit when you're wrong.
Remember, Ernest Shackleton didn't conquer the Antarctic alone. He relied on the skill and resilience of his crew, and his sense of humility kept the team united through unimaginable challenges. The same is true for us in business. By fostering a culture of humility and collaboration, we can navigate any obstacle and achieve remarkable things together.
Call to Action: This week, I challenge each of you to identify one area where you can practice humility in your leadership style. Is it by actively soliciting feedback from a team member, acknowledging a mistake in a meeting, or simply offering praise to a colleague for their contribution? By weaving humility into the fabric of your leadership, you can build a stronger, more resilient team, and together, achieve even greater success.
Unlock Exclusive Benefits in Business & Life (peternathan.substack.com)❤️
Enjoy and use my thought-provoking short stories, that explore the intersection of business and life, so that you will always be the best version of yourself.
As a paid subscriber ($US 7.00 per month), you'll gain exclusive access to in-depth analysis, actionable takeaways, and behind-the-scenes content you won't find anywhere else.
Take your personal and professional growth to the next level. Subscribe today (peternathan.substack.com)