The Man in the Arena

COVID-19 dramatically altered our daily routines, thrusting us into a daunting period of uncertainty. Businesses of all sizes grappled with the future, confronting the viability of their operations, teams, and very livelihoods. In an instant, gleaming offices were deserted, retailers shuttered, and the world turned to technology on an unprecedented scale.

During this time, I was immersed in marketing. Early, transparent discussions with clients and partners were pivotal as we navigated this new terrain. Unfortunately, this also meant parting ways with exceptional colleagues to ensure our own survival, swapping the familiarity of our office for the monotony of the same four walls around the clock. Over the ensuing months, I collaborated closely with my team and clients, tackling immediate challenges and devising swift, actionable strategies for their transition to a new normal.

Amidst this, a local art store issued a print with a message that would have permeated the streets of Halifax a century ago: "We Shall Never Rebuild Halifax Unless Everybody Works." On December 6, 1917, the city of Halifax was decimated by the largest man-made explosion up to its time. Many were killed, with houses and businesses destroyed. This poster and its rallying cry struck a chord then, and it sure as hell did so again during the early pandemic. It underscored a simple truth—recovery and progress were impossible without a collective effort. This message has adorned my office wall for four years, constantly reminding me that progress is a team effort.

Earlier today, during a conversation with a colleague (shoutout to Rhiannon Mosoronchon ) in Calgary, I was drawn to a poster hanging on her wall: Theodore Roosevelt’s “The Man in the Arena.” I hadn’t read this excerpt in many years, and I’m sure it hits me differently, especially these days, than others’ interpretations. It reinforced a critical insight: it’s far too easy to be a critic from the sidelines in business, relationships, and life. The real challenge—and the true measure of courage—is to engage directly, work hard, endure setbacks, and earn your stripes through perseverance. This resonates deeply with me. Through the years, the most admirable people I’ve worked with were those in the trenches alongside me, fostering trust and respect. In stark contrast were those who remained passive, quick to critique yet absent in effort, or claimed victories as their own while attributing failures to others.

My hot take: strive to be the teammate, leader, partner, and friend who actively contributes, supports, and uplifts others. While we may all stumble, our goal should always be to remain engaged and present in the arena.