You’re probably aware of the failed Antarctic expedition, led by Ernest Shackleton, told in detail in the fantastic book “Endurance.” Shackleton’s leadership saved all 28 men under incredibly inhuman weather conditions.
This supposed advertisement is apocryphal: “Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in event of success.”
But Shackleton did pick these 28 men from over 5,000 applicants – and this is a key reason why any of them returned home at all. A randomly selected group of men would simply not have survived. Every expedition member knew the risks and challenges, had deep skills, and was well-prepared for suffering necessary for success.
Lesson here: Be selective about who is on your team if you have a difficult objective.
