7 lessons from the race to the South Pole

On this day in October 1911, Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen led the first expedition to reach the South Pole, beating the team led by British navy officer and explorer Robert Scott despite huge resource disadvantages. Amundsen’s success has profound lessons for leaders that endure to this day.

1. Clarity of purpose

Scott had several aims for his expedition, including wanting to explore the Antarctic and research the animals, weather, and geology of the region. Amundsen had but one aim: to be the first person to reach the South Pole.

2. Preparation beats inspiration

Amundsen was renowned for his meticulous preparation and exhaustive attention to detail. He spent years preparing for the journey, including researching the terrain and the weather conditions and studying the Inuit people of Alaska to understand how they lived in such a harsh climate. He also personally designed the party’s ski boots – the result of two years of testing and modification in search of perfection.

3. Balance innovation with tradition

Amundsen innovated by using skis and following a diet rich in protein and vitamins, but – where Scott used motorized sleds and horses – adopted the centuries-old Inuit use of dogsleds to transport food and equipment and wore wolf- and reindeer-skin clothing for insulation.

4. Adapt – and survive

Amundsen was never afraid to change course if circumstances changed; for example, by trying new sledding techniques to allow the team to travel faster. He was also known for his readiness to listen to feedback and new information, which helped him make better-informed decisions in challenging situations.

5. Assemble the right (and right-size) team

Scott assembled a large team of 65 and deputed one of them to choose the horses for the expedition. But, knowing nothing about horses (which were anyway unsuited to the conditions), the team member picked animals of poor age and condition, greatly undermining the British effort. By contrast, Amundsen handpicked role-specific experts, including a champion skier who was also a skilled carpenter and ski-maker, and a dog expert for his team of only 19 personnel (18 of whom were his personal choices).

6. Set realistic goals…

Whereas Scott pushed his team to cover up to 60 punishing miles a day – which meant needing to rest for several days at a time – Amundsen set a limit of traveling around 15 miles a day maximum, then stopped, regardless of the conditions. As a result, his team conserved strength and stayed comparatively fresh.

7. …and acknowledge achieving them

Besides maintaining steady progress, Amundsen was also at pains to maintain good morale among team members by recognizing progress through modest celebrations, which meant the team stayed motivated and in good spirits.