Servant Leadership Shackleton

Shackleton knew that he had to keep his crew engaged due to the long days and months of unknowing. He ordered the crew to keep up daily activities, but insisted that all members participate in all activities; there was a sense of equality among the men. He was quick to reprimand those who created issues or trouble within the group. John Vincent was quickly punished for bullying and was made out as an example that infighting would not be tolerated (WGBH Enterprises, 2001). Again, Shackleton displayed servant leadership by swiftly correcting an action for the greater good of the group. They worked, ate and played together to create camaraderie by racing the dogs, playing instruments and dancing for entertainment. Shackleton knew that each crew member had a set of skills that would be important to the team and their survival. He empowered his …show more content…
These traits and “others first” mentality fall in line with the character theory described in Northouse rather than conduct. In his early years, he exuded confidence and arrogance that may not have been “others” centered, but it appears that he learned virtues and moral accountability (Northouse, 2013). He was a man of many virtues and as Aristotle explains, “virtues allowed people to live well in communities,” (Northouse, 2013) an essential piece of maintaining order in a twenty-eight man camp for almost two years. Shackleton closely aligns with Heifetz’s thoughts on leadership in the ways he helped and encouraged his men during a grueling ordeal. There were so many obstacles for Shackleton and his men; change was the only thing constant and yet Shackleton did his best to maintain balance, honesty, unity, courage and benevolence. He addressed changes through the “use of authority to help followers deal with the conflicting values that emerge in rapidly changing work environments and social cultures” (Northouse, 2013).