Shackleton's Legacy: Unveiling the 'Third Man' Secret for Empowered Teams and Values-Driven Decision Making

Have you heard of Third Man Syndrome?

During the ill-fated Antarctic expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton, the crew faced extreme conditions and the threat of isolation. Shackleton himself reported sensing a "third person" during particularly challenging moments. In his diary, he described a feeling that someone else was always with him, offering guidance and support. This phenomenon is believed to have played a role in Shackleton's exceptional leadership and the eventual survival of his crew despite the harsh conditions.

In climbing and mountaineering, the Third Man Syndrome refers to an inexplicable sense of an unseen presence during extreme conditions, providing climbers with comfort and strength. Building and growing a business can feel like an extreme environment - often. It involves conquering internal and external challenges and often requires a guide.?

There are a million and one analogies I could make here: mentoring, coaching, advisors. All are valuable. All have their place.? But they are not necessarily available to everyone in your team any time they need them.?

I read about Shakleton and Third Man syndrome recently and reflected on whether we could consider viewing organisational values and guiding principles as the metaphorical "Third Man." These core beliefs serve as an unseen guide, not only influencing your decision-making based on embedded organisational values but also empowering your team to autonomously make better, values-aligned judgments.

Values-aligned Judgment

Much like the Third Man in climbing, your values should be an ever-present force in your expedition. They provide a compass, helping you navigate complex decisions with integrity and purpose. Recognising your values as the silent guide can help ensure that each step you and your team make aligns with your organisational principles, offering a reassuring sense of direction and purpose.

As a leader, instilling a set of shared values and guiding principles within your team transforms each member into an empowered decision-maker. The "Third Man" in this context becomes a collective consciousness of shared values, allowing the team to work autonomously while making decisions rooted in a unified set of principles.

Empowered by shared values, team members gain the autonomy to make better decisions aligned with the mission and values of the expedition. This autonomy not only streamlines the decision-making process but also fosters a culture where each team member is equipped to contribute to the collective success of the journey.

In embracing your values and guiding principles as the "Third Man," you not only enhance your decision-making but create a collaborative and empowered team, ready to face the challenges of your collective expedition.?

What next?

Reflect & Define:

• Take a moment to identify and clarify your personal and professional values. What principles guide your decision-making on this journey?

Empower Your Team:

• Share and discuss these values with your team. Encourage open dialogue and cultivate a collective understanding of the principles that drive your expedition.

Nurture Autonomy:

• Empower your team members to make values-aligned decisions autonomously. Foster a culture where each individual feels equipped and inspired to contribute meaningfully.

Connect with Human People & Culture:

• If you are seeking to amplify the impact of the values in your organisation, consider starting a conversation with Human.? Explore how strong, well embedded organisational values can empower your team and help you grow.

#ValuesDrivenLeadership #GuidingPrinciples #Human