"One of the most confounding laws of human nature is that when faced with a task, people will work harder alone than they will when joined in the effort—a phenomenon known as social loafing. There is, however, an antidote. It’s the presence of one person who leaves no doubt that they are giving it everything they’ve got." -Sam Walker, The Captain Class

A story stuck with me this week. A colleague shared it, having picked it up from someone else. Stories travel like that.

He was talking about a special company. The kind that, when you add it to your LinkedIn, you shine a little brighter. It feels like you've achieved something, even if you haven't done anything yet. You're riding their train. The bigger the company, the easier it is to do that.

But it's not a train or a bus. Both carry mostly just riders. I see a ship. A Viking ship.

Not the pillage-and-destroy kind, but the explore-and-find kind. Adventure. Purpose. Direction. It has long benches with no space for stowaways to hide.

When there's no wind and the tide is against you, everyone matters. And, it's not just about effort. It's about alignment, pace, rhythm, and the people next to you. Are you helping or hurting?

Yet still, things change. I've woken up to realize that I've been in the wrong seat and even on the wrong boat. When that happens, it's on me to do what's right for the team. Get back in the fight, or pick a different journey.

Take care, friend. Be good.

—Kelly

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kellyvohs.substack.com