Shackleton Inspiration

In 1914, Sir Ernest Shackleton set off aboard the ship Endurance on an expedition to be the first to cross Antarctica.

In recruitment for the expedition, Shackleton advertised in the newspaper, "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."

Tragedy struck, however, when the expedition’s ship was crushed between drifting ice flows and sank before ever reaching Antarctica.

Sir Shackleton was determined to return his men to safety. For nearly 3 years, he would lead his men overcoming many extreme hardships. Hazardous weather, mutiny and starvation were just a few of the challenges they faced. His men followed Shackleton through the hopeless situation and ultimately were rescued without a single fatality. “Find a way or make one!” was their motto.

In the James Caird lifeboat, Ernest Shackleton crossed over 800 miles of one of the most treacherous seas in the world from Elephant Island to South Georgia Island, a remarkable feat.

Remembering Shackleton's raw determination and his team's ultimate success in the face of overwhelming adversity inspires in us the same will and determination to succeed in our investments.