Sink or Swim? Why That Mentality Is Sinking More Than It Saves

“It’s time to sink or swim.” It’s a phrase many of us have heard at some point in our careers—often when starting a new job or stepping into unfamiliar territory. For some, it’s meant as motivation. For others, it feels like a sentence. I remember those moments clearly: frustration, confusion, and a gnawing sense of being left behind. It didn’t motivate me it left a bitter taste.

This phrase represents a deeper conflict in the workplace and in leadership: the difference between expecting growth through productive struggle versus throwing people into the deep end without tools, guidance, or support. Yes, struggle is part of learning. But there’s a line between challenge and neglect—and too often that line is ignored in the name of "toughening up" or "paying dues."

What’s even more disheartening is when people deliberately withhold information simply because it wasn’t offered to them. "I had to figure it out on my own—so should you." That mindset doesn’t foster growth. It perpetuates pain points and reinforces the very systems that frustrate, devalue, and drive people away.

Here’s the truth: when we lead teams, classrooms, offices, or businesses, we are in a position of responsibility—not just to manage, but to coach, to teach, and to build capacity. That means shaping the systems that surround our people. If your onboarding, training, feedback, and support systems are broken or nonexistent, you’re not just failing individuals—you’re sabotaging culture, productivity, and long-term success.

One simple yet powerful shift is this: replace “sink or swim” with “let me teach you how to swim.” Create systems that support learning curves, encourage questions, and build confidence. When you do, you build loyalty, strengthen relationships, and grow people who want to grow with you.

And yes, if after clear support and values-aligned leadership someone continues to struggle, parting ways may be necessary. But if your default is “figure it out like I had to,” don’t be surprised when people start sinking—along with the potential of your entire team. We rise when we teach others how to swim.