Resilient Leadership: Lessons from the Ice

I recently completed a brilliant free, self-paced course from Harvard Business School Online — Resilient Leadership. In just 35 minutes, it offered a powerful, real-world case study on leadership through crisis, focusing on the incredible story of explorer Ernest Shackleton and his crew's survival in Antarctica.

What stood out to me most was how Shackleton’s approach to leadership shifted as the situation unfolded. He didn’t just stick to the plan — he pivoted with courage, focused on the wellbeing of his team, and led with optimism in the face of extreme uncertainty. His ability to maintain engagement, unity, and trust while literally stuck in the ice is a masterclass in resilient leadership.

“Difficulties are just things to overcome, after all.”

A simple line, but one that speaks volumes about mindset, adaptability, and grit.

I thoroughly enjoyed the course and found the perspective deeply relevant — not just for dramatic expeditions, but for the unpredictable challenges we face in modern teams and workplaces. A great reminder that in tough times, strong leadership isn’t about rigid control — it’s about adaptability, empathy, and keeping your people moving forward together.

Highly recommend if you're looking for a fresh perspective on leadership. Check it out here