Sunday Story: The Spirit Of Adventure

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Frank Hurley's actual photograph capturing the defining moment of the expedition

Today's story is about Ernest Shackleton, being one of the most famous survival and leadership tales in history and the advertisement he placed for his mission. Shackleton was a British explorer who led the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition in 1914, aiming to cross Antarctica via the South Pole. However, his ship, the Endurance, became trapped in the ice and was eventually crushed, forcing Shackleton and his crew into a desperate struggle for survival.

The story is often quoted in corporate and leadership programmes as it provides excellent examples of crisis management, resilience, and people-first leadership. In fact in our company, one of our top group managers had told his story and ever since it has remained in memory. 

Most of you may be knowing about Shackleton’s survival story, as a lot has been said and written about it. What I give here as part of my Sunday Story, is one other aspect relating to his expedition. 

An advertisement was supposedly placed by Shackleton before the expedition, (see picture of ad below) which reads:

"Men wanted for hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success."

Shackleton at best expected a dozen people to apply, but it is said that thousands of men applied for the expedition, including experienced sailors, scientists, and adventurers.

The overwhelming response to such a dangerous mission reflects a basic inherent aspect of human nature, which is the desire for adventure and challenge. Many people are drawn to challenges that test their limits, seeking meaning through hardship and discovery. The idea of exploring the unknown was deeply appealing, especially in the early 20th century.

There is another factor. The thrill of risk and glory. The idea of facing danger, adversity, and potential fame can be incredibly enticing. Even though the expedition had low odds of success, the thought of being part of something legendary was enough for many to take the risk.

The expedition also presented an opportunity to escape from routine. Many men at the time worked in tough, repetitive jobs. An Antarctic expedition offered an escape from mundane life and a chance to be part of history.

Humans thrive in purpose-driven environments and seek strong social bonds. Shackleton’s leadership and vision likely appealed to those who wanted to belong to something greater than themselves.

It is human instinct that drive us to explore, push limits, and seek adventure. We have seen that people apply for dangerous roles, astronauts, military special forces, extreme sports, deep-sea exploration, despite high risks. There is an 'optimism bias' where people tend to believe that “it won’t happen to me”, a psychological trait that makes individuals more willing to take risks. Despite the dangers, applicants might have thought they would be among those who survived and gained recognition.

Which brings us to the point, would you have applied for the expedition if you were alive at the time?


Advertisement supposedly placed by Shackleton before the expedition

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