After having seen the movie Darkest Hour, I was left with many thoughts, and I felt upbeat as I left the theater. I would like to write my opinions relative to its theme, and how it relates so much to my experience in the professional world. During the beginning of the movie, my initial impression was that everything in Winston’s life seemed very orderly. I found it fascinating how others looked after him throughout his day. The final impression was how he seemed to be on the cusp of something big.
A pivotal point in the story was when Winston replaced the beleaguered Neville Chamberlain as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. This took place as parts of Europe were starting to succumb to the Nazis. Once he took over as Prime Minister, Winston learned just how unprepared his country was for war. Not only did the British not have sufficient military strength, the military leadership did not have the mindset that they could defeat the enemy, or even adequately defend Britain.
The movie impressed upon the audience just how little the leadership in the Government wanted war. The opposition thought they could sue for peace, however, Winston thought differently. Another interesting observation was how Winston chose to have his rivals as part of the War Cabinet to keep his enemies close. During most of the movie it was obvious that Winston had to tread lightly or the opposition would vote him out of office. All this pressure kept mounting throughout the movie. One could tell that Winston was struggling mightily with his situation at hand. He was concerned for the immediate removal of some 300,000 troops at Dunkirk while at the same time trying to remain in office.
On the way to Parliament, Winston decided to ride the subway part of the way (I don’t know if this was historically accurate). What Winston ended up learning was just how supportive the British people were about defending their country, at all costs. By speaking with the people, he garnered a much needed confidence boost for a speech he later delivered to Parliament, which cemented his leadership as the Prime Minister of Britain.
Although my experiences in the working world pale in comparison to Winston Churchill, there are many similarities that can be considered. First, how many times do we get ourselves into something that we thought was completely different (this isn’t what I signed up for!)? Second, have you ever had a leader or teammate(s) that disliked you to a point where they tried to undermine your integrity? Third, did you ever get into a position that was a bad fit but you had no remedy to fix the problem? Fourth, did you ever have a situation where you were supported by the most unlikely people that assisted in your success (the King and Winston’s personal secretary)?
It’s my belief that the HSE profession, especially safety, is one that covers the gamut when it comes to emotions, relationships, doing what’s right even if it’s not easy, taking risks, politicking and living to fight another day, just to name a few. To me, Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill is a mortal that I want to emulate.