Discipline, Commitment, Courage, and Practical Risk Ownership

By Ed Thinkletter:

Ernest Hemingway’s  The Old Man and the Sea  tells the story of Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman who faces the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and spirit as he battles a massive marlin far out in the Gulf Stream. The novel’s central themes include perseverance, pride, and the honor found in struggle, even in the face of defeat. Through Santiago’s arduous fight to catch the marlin, Hemingway explores the limits of human strength, the dignity in risk-taking, and the resilience required to face life’s inevitable losses. Santiago’s unwavering commitment to his goal, despite the physical and emotional toll, embodies the courage to accept and confront risks with purpose.

For a public service leader, The Old Man and the Sea  provides powerful insights into practical risk ownership by showing the importance of preparation, resilience, and accepting responsibility for outcomes. Santiago’s battle with the marlin illustrates that meaningful risk ownership is not simply about success or failure but about the willingness to confront challenges and remain committed to one’s values and goals. Elected officials, administrators and risk managers at every level, like Santiago, must often grapple with unpredictable factors beyond their control, such as market changes or operational disruptions. By embracing responsibility for these situations and preparing for both potential victories and setbacks, they can navigate challenges with a clear sense of purpose.

Hemingway’s novel also emphasizes the necessity of assessing the limits of one’s resources and energy, a core component of practical risk ownership. Santiago understands the costs of his quest, recognizing that his pursuit requires both skill and respect for the power of nature. For a risk manager, this means approaching risks with foresight, realistic limits, and the discipline to know when to adjust or concede. Ultimately,  The Old Man and the Sea  teaches that risk ownership is about the commitment to one’s principles, the courage to face difficult choices, and the resilience to bear the consequences, regardless of the outcome.