Podcast Summary
The importance of clear communication and teamwork in leadership: Effective leadership requires clear communication and teamwork to ensure everyone moves together and survives.
Learning from this podcast episode is the importance of clear communication and teamwork in leadership, as illustrated in a training exercise recounted by Jocko Willink. During the exercise, Jocko, as the leader, made a decision to flank the enemy to save his platoon, but failed to communicate his intentions effectively to his team. When he returned, he was met with confusion and criticism. The incident stayed with him throughout his career, and he learned the valuable lesson that as a leader, it's essential to get the team out of the danger zone and communicate intentions clearly to ensure everyone moves together and survives. This principle is echoed in Admiral William H. McCraven's book, "The Wisdom of the Bullfrog," where he emphasizes the importance of clear communication and teamwork in achieving success. Effective leadership requires both quick thinking and clear communication, as demonstrated in Jocko's experience and reinforced by McCraven's teachings.
Military mottos and creeds as guiding principles for effective leadership: Military mottos and creeds provide simple yet profound guidance for decision-making and building a strong culture in leadership.
Effective leadership is simple, yet not easy. It's not about having complex algorithms or sophisticated charts, but rather relying on guiding principles and mantras. These military mottos and creeds have been used for centuries to inspire, motivate, and guide leaders and followers alike. In his new book, "The Wisdom of the Bullfrog," Admiral McRaven shares his personal experiences and insights on these leadership mantras. He discovered that these sayings serve as a mental checklist for decision-making and functioning within a strong culture. The book provides a deeper understanding of the origins and significance of these mantras and how they can be applied to everyday life. The Admiral shares his own experiences of learning leadership and the impact of these guiding principles on his career. By breaking down these mantras, readers can gain valuable insights and tools for effective leadership.
Personal codes of honor and making ethical decisions: Strive to make ethical decisions, justifiable to others and uphold values and principles, even in challenging situations.
Before making a decision or taking an action, individuals should be able to justify it to reasonable people and stand by it, even if it means facing potential criticism or consequences. This concept, often referred to as the "long green table," originated from the military and has been adapted as a personal mantra for making ethical and honorable choices. Another well-known mantra is "death before dishonor," which emphasizes the importance of upholding values and principles, even in the face of adversity or danger. Ultimately, having a personal code of honor and striving to do the right thing, even when it's difficult, is essential for being a respected and effective leader. As Carl von Clausewitz, a 19th century Prussian general, once said, "everything in war is simple."
Leading with honor and integrity is not always easy: Prioritizing short-term wins over long-term honor and integrity can lead to consequences, but staying committed to doing the right thing builds strong organizations and individuals.
Leading with honor and integrity may seem simple, but it's not always easy. The speaker shares an experience from his military days where academics criticized the military for not building roads in Afghanistan, implying that it was a simple solution. However, the speaker points out that when people are under fire and in danger, building roads is not a priority. He applies this concept to leadership, emphasizing that being honorable and leading with integrity is not always the easy choice, but it's the right one. He argues that organizations and individuals who prioritize short-term wins over long-term honor and integrity will eventually face consequences. The speaker also shares a personal experience where he and his team had to repeat a hydrographic reconnaissance mission due to the marines' dissatisfaction, highlighting the importance of persevering through challenges and staying committed to doing the right thing, even when it's difficult. In the end, the speaker concludes that honor and integrity are essential for building strong organizations, cultures, and human beings, despite the challenges.
Leading with integrity and compassion: Effective leaders make tough decisions, question unnecessary suffering, encourage creativity, and own mistakes.
Effective leadership involves making tough decisions and doing what's right, even when it's not the easy option. CB, a great officer in the SEAL teams, demonstrated this when he questioned whether they should continue with a hydrographic process that would have saved them time but would have caused unnecessary suffering for his platoon. His question prompted agreement from everyone, and this experience stayed with Jocko and influenced his leadership style. Another key takeaway is the importance of creativity and flexibility in problem-solving, rather than resorting to cheating or circumventing rules. In training, the phrase "if you ain't cheating, you ain't trying" was often used, but Jocko believes it should be interpreted as encouraging creativity and thinking outside the box, rather than cheating or breaking rules. Effective leaders should own their mistakes, correct problems, and maintain a culture of honesty and integrity.
Trusting Instincts and Building Relationships: Effective leadership involves trusting your instincts, acting quickly to solve problems, and building strong relationships through openness and care.
Effective leadership requires thinking outside the box and building trust. The story shared highlights the importance of trusting your instincts and acting quickly to solve problems, even if it means deviating from established procedures. Trust is essential not only between leaders and their team members but also among peers and those in higher positions. Building trust takes time, and it's crucial for leading effectively. Additionally, being open to influence from others and showing care for those you lead are essential components of strong relationships and successful leadership. When faced with a situation where your boss asks you to do something that doesn't make sense, it's essential to maintain trust by carrying out the task to the best of your ability, even if you don't fully understand the reasoning behind it.
Effective Leadership through Honesty and Clear Communication: Leaders must prioritize honesty and clear communication to build trust, explain decisions, and encourage good followership. Speak truth to power and avoid being too righteous towards superiors. Reconsider decisions if unable to effectively communicate reasons.
Honesty and clear communication are essential components of effective leadership. The speaker shares his experiences from his military career, emphasizing the importance of trust and the obligation of leaders to explain their decisions to their team members. He stresses the importance of having individuals in leadership positions who are willing to speak the truth to power and encourages young leaders to avoid being too righteous towards their superiors. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of good followership, where team members own the decisions made by their leaders, even if they disagree with them. He concludes by suggesting that if a leader finds it difficult to explain the reasons behind a decision, it may be worth reconsidering that decision.
Leadership in the face of tough decisions: Effective leaders create open environments, make tough decisions, act with purpose, and accept challenges. Communication is also crucial to making informed decisions.
Effective leadership involves creating an open environment where team members feel comfortable voicing their concerns, while also acknowledging the importance of taking decisive action. This was exemplified by Admiral Chester Nimitz during the Battle of Midway, where the weight of his decision to engage the Japanese fleet was immense. Nimitz's leadership philosophy, "when in command, command," emphasized the need for commanders to make tough decisions, act with purpose, and accept the challenges that come with leadership. This principle served him well throughout his military career, and it remains relevant for leaders in all fields today. Additionally, the story illustrates the importance of communication and the potential consequences of not sharing critical information with those in charge. Ultimately, the ability to make informed decisions and take command when necessary is essential for any leader, whether in the military or in other industries.
Making tough decisions as a leader: Effective leaders listen to counsel but ultimately make decisive actions for the greater good, even when faced with uncertainty and fear.
Effective leadership requires making difficult decisions, even when faced with uncertainty and fear. Chester Nimitz, a legendary naval commander, serves as an inspiring example of this principle. His decision to sail the fleet to Midway, despite advisors' warnings and opposition, ultimately led to a significant victory. As a leader, it's essential to listen to counsel and assess situations carefully, but ultimately, decisiveness is key. Nimitz's "when in command, command" philosophy has stayed with the speaker throughout their career, emphasizing the importance of making tough decisions for the greater good. It's important to remember that leaders will be wrong at times, but their decisiveness is appreciated by those they lead. Balancing listening and decisiveness is crucial for successful leadership.
Balancing Risks: Planning and Decisiveness: Effective risk management involves careful planning, gathering intel, considering counsel, and making decisive actions to minimize risks.
While taking calculated risks is essential for success, it's crucial to dedicate a significant amount of time to planning and preparation to minimize those risks. The British Special Air Service's motto "Who Dares Wins" emphasizes the importance of being decisive, but it's important to do so only after careful consideration of all potential risks. The Bin Laden raid is an excellent example of this, as the SEALs spent a considerable amount of time gathering intelligence and planning their mission before executing it. The speaker encourages listening to the counsel of those providing you with information and being aware of your fears, but ultimately, making a decision and not getting paralyzed by analysis. The scenario of a hostage rescue mission illustrates the importance of mitigating risks, as not everyone may be willing to take the same level of risk, but the reality is that it's not a black and white question, and finding a balance is key.
Assessing and adapting plans in uncertain situations: In high-pressure situations, complete risk elimination is impossible. Instead, reassess plans, mitigate risks, and make the best of the situation. Every task, no matter how small, can lead to valuable experiences and growth.
Adaptability and humility are crucial in high-pressure situations. The speaker shared an experience from his military background where they had to approach a potentially dangerous building with uncertainties. Instead of relying on a yes or no answer, they reassessed their plan and took actions to mitigate risks. He emphasized that complete risk elimination is impossible, and it's essential to make the best of the situation. The speaker also shared a story from his early career when he was tasked with building a frog float for a parade instead of the anticipated big mission. And, despite his initial disappointment, he learned to take pride in every task and do it to the best of his ability. This lesson served him well throughout his career, and he encourages everyone to remember that even seemingly insignificant tasks can lead to valuable experiences and growth.
Every task matters, no matter the size: Trust in the vision and give your best effort to every task, no matter how insignificant it may seem, as it contributes to team morale and can have unexpected positive impacts.
No task is insignificant in the context of an organization or team. Whether it's building a giant paper mache frog float for a parade or cleaning up a polluted beach, every task contributes to the greater good. As leaders, it's important to trust in the vision and direction of our superiors and give our best effort to every assignment. The frog float story illustrates this concept, as the speaker was initially skeptical about the importance of the project but ultimately came to understand its value for team morale and community relations. Similarly, cleaning up the beach in Colombia seemed like a menial task for elite commandos, but it led to positive interactions with the local community and left a lasting impact. Even in combat situations, seemingly insignificant tasks can play a crucial role in the success of the mission. So, regardless of the size or apparent significance of a task, it's essential to approach it with a positive attitude and a commitment to excellence.
Work hard and give your best every day: Leaders should work harder than their team and put their needs first, inspiring growth through example
No matter how experienced or senior you become, you must continue to work hard and give your best every day. The speaker, a Navy SEAL, shared his experiences of running complex missions and the importance of pushing through challenges, even when it seemed unfair or difficult. He emphasized that leaders should never believe they have nothing left to prove or that they are entitled to special treatment. Instead, they should lead by example, working harder than those around them and putting the needs of their team before their own. The speaker's words echo the ethos of Navy SEAL training, where the only easy day is yesterday, and every day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow.
Leading with courage, humility, and responsibility: Effective leaders make right decisions, care for their team, remember legacy, address problems aggressively, communicate intentions clearly, and lead with courage, humility, and responsibility.
Effective leadership involves both external and internal aspects. Externally, leaders must prove themselves by making the right decisions, taking care of their team, and accomplishing the mission. Internally, they must remember the legacy of those who came before them and represent their team with honor, integrity, and the right intentions. Additionally, leaders should be aggressive in addressing problems and communicate their intentions clearly. As the speaker shared through the example of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain at the Battle of Gettysburg, running to the sound of the guns means taking action to solve problems and assessing the situation from the best possible position. Ultimately, it's about leading with courage, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to one's team and legacy.
Leaders face problems head-on: Effective leaders don't shy away from issues but rather take ownership and address them promptly, inspiring and managing their team through challenges
Effective leaders don't shy away from problems, but rather, they move towards them to address them head-on. This is true regardless of the industry or field, be it military, corporate, or academic. Leaders may be tempted to distance themselves from issues, but the real leader steps up and takes ownership. A notable example is the CEO of BP during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, who failed to visit the site and ultimately lost his position. Leaders must inspire, manage, and help people understand the nature of the work they're doing, and that involves being present and engaged when challenges arise. If your boss calls you about a problem, it's a sign that you need to take action and resolve it promptly. Leadership is about more than just giving orders; it's about inspiring, managing, and being present during tough times.
Embrace challenges and be transparent: Effective leaders face challenges head-on, build trust through transparency, and avoid covering up mistakes to maintain respect and accountability.
Effective leadership involves facing challenges head-on, even when they are difficult or uncomfortable. This was a valuable lesson learned from military experience, where leaders were expected to address problems directly and transparently. This approach builds trust and respect among team members, as they know their leader will take ownership of issues and work to find solutions. Conversely, attempts to cover up mistakes or avoid accountability can lead to suspicion and a loss of trust. The military's "investigate us" attitude is a powerful example of this approach, as it encourages transparency and a commitment to understanding the facts of any situation. By embracing this mindset, leaders can build strong, effective teams that are better equipped to tackle complex challenges.
Great leaders take initiative: Great leaders don't wait to be told what to do, they act on their own accord and seize opportunities to improve situations.
Great leaders take initiative and act on their own accord (sua sponte). This quality sets them apart from mediocre leaders. The story of Ralph Bucket, a highly decorated army ranger, illustrates this principle. He ran across an open field multiple times to draw enemy fire and help his unit locate it, demonstrating his courage and leadership. This concept is not limited to life-threatening situations. In less critical situations, like when the microphone was not positioned correctly for Moki Martin during a commemoration event, a young seal took the initiative to fix it without being told. Leaders should seize opportunities to act when they see something that needs to be done, regardless of their rank or the importance of the situation.
Who dares wins, but who plans and prepares also wins: Boldness and audacity are necessary for success, but they must be accompanied by thorough planning and preparation.
Boldness and audacity are essential for success in leadership, but they must be backed up by thorough planning and preparation. This was evident in a story shared about a young soldier who made a tactical decision during a firefight, and it also applies to the theory of special operations success. While risks may appear great to outsiders, those on the inside can manage them through careful planning and preparation. Leaders must exhibit a sense of boldness, but not confuse it with brashness or imprudence. Planning and preparation are crucial to identifying risk factors and developing options for addressing them. The importance of planning is often overlooked in movies and media, but it plays a significant role in successful military operations. Even in the early stages of a deployment, planning and preparation are essential for launching on targets effectively. So, in summary, who dares wins, but who plans and prepares also wins.
The power of hope and well-established SOPs during mission execution: Having both a solid strategy, detailed planning, and hard work, along with hope, leads to successful mission execution. Well-established SOPs allow teams to adapt when situations deviate from the plan.
Having well-established standard operating procedures (SOPs) is crucial for successful mission execution. During the Bin Laden raid, the team's familiarity with their SOPs allowed them to adapt when the situation deviated from the plan. However, hope alone is not enough; it must be combined with a solid strategy, detailed planning, and hard work to achieve goals. The power of hope inspires, encourages, and empowers, but without a sound plan, it remains just wishful thinking. An example from World War 2 illustrates this: the mission to get the Tirpitz, a German battleship, required the use of X craft submarines. Despite the challenges, the British were successful due to their combination of hope and a well-executed plan.
Effective planning and rehearsal are crucial for mission success: Prepare for worst-case scenarios, fully rehearse processes, and plan extensively to increase chances of mission success
Effective planning and rehearsal are crucial for mission success. The story of the operation to sink the German battleship Tirpitz illustrates this point. The team spent two years preparing for the mission, but they didn't fully rehearse the process of towing the mini-submarines behind the larger subs. When the mission finally took place, three of the mini-subs were lost due to Manila lines breaking. If they had conducted a full dress rehearsal, they might have discovered this issue and saved lives. As Godfrey Plish, who successfully carried out the mission, reflected, planning and preparation are just as important as inspiration and hope. In fact, hope alone is not a sufficient strategy. Another important lesson is the need to plan for worst-case scenarios. The military understands this well, but it's a lesson that can be applied to any organization. The Bin Laden raid is an example of this principle in action. The team prepared for multiple contingencies, knowing that no plan survives first contact with the enemy. Similarly, the Exxon Valdez oil spill serves as a reminder of the importance of planning for unlikely events. The cost of preparing for such scenarios can seem high, but the potential consequences of not doing so can be catastrophic. As a leader, it's essential to think through worst-case scenarios and be prepared to make decisions in the face of unexpected challenges.
Planning for potential challenges in leadership: Effective leaders anticipate scenarios, have contingencies, maintain focus, and hold themselves and their team to high standards.
Effective leaders plan ahead and make decisions in advance, even in the face of uncertainty. In the given discussion, the speaker recounts the importance of having a plan for potential challenges during a military operation. He emphasizes the importance of considering various scenarios and having contingencies in place. The speaker also stresses the importance of maintaining a clear head and not wavering during the heat of the battle. He uses the analogy of mountaineers turning back before a certain point to emphasize the importance of making decisions ahead of time. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holding oneself and one's team to a high standard and expecting more from them. The story of the encounter with the Commodore serves as a reminder of this principle. Overall, the discussion highlights the importance of preparation, clear decision-making, and holding oneself and one's team to a high standard in leadership.
Setting high standards and holding people accountable: Great organizations thrive on high standards and accountability. Navy SEALs, like any other team, expect their members to meet these standards and face consequences if they don't.
Great organizations, whether they are Navy SEAL teams or any other type of organization, thrive on setting high standards and holding people accountable. The speaker, a former Navy SEAL, shares an experience from his deployment where some team members got into trouble, and despite their good intentions, they were held to a higher standard due to their role as Navy SEALs. He emphasizes that every organization strives to be great, and the way to achieve that is by setting and enforcing high standards. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a sailor named Ricky, who taught him the importance of being a good officer by spending time with him in the boiler room and showing him what they expected from their leaders. Overall, the message is clear: to build a great organization, one must set high standards and hold people accountable.
Observing respected military leaders and living with sailors taught the importance of servant leadership: Effective leaders share burdens, make tough decisions, and prioritize team success over personal gain.
Effective leadership in the military, and likely in other fields as well, involves both sharing the hardships and responsibilities with those you lead, while also making tough decisions and holding them accountable. This was a valuable lesson learned from observing respected officers who showed up and worked alongside sailors, and it was reinforced during a mandatory cruise where prospective officers lived and worked alongside sailors to understand their perspective. This approach to leadership, known as servant leadership, puts the focus on the success of the team rather than the leader's personal gain. It's important for leaders to remember that their decisions have a direct impact on those they serve, and they must maintain a balance between professional distance and understanding the needs and expectations of their team. Ultimately, leadership is about serving and empowering the team to succeed.
Military Leadership Evolution: From barking orders to inspiring respect, military leadership has evolved to meet the changing needs of soldiers and sailors, ensuring a strong and cohesive force
Effective leadership in the military has evolved significantly over the years. Early on, there was a more authoritarian approach where commanding officers barked orders and demanded obedience. However, as the military experienced transitions like the Vietnam War and the arrival of servant leadership, there was a shift towards inspiring and earning the respect of the troops. By the time of the 9/11 attacks, the military had become a formidable force with a high retention rate, and the leadership style had adapted to meet the needs of soldiers and sailors who were often deployed for extended periods. This evolution was crucial for the military's success in maintaining a strong and cohesive force, and it demonstrates the importance of adapting leadership styles to changing circumstances.
Engaging with team at all levels in mundane situations: Effective leadership involves respect, empathy, understanding, communication, and addressing concerns at all levels to maintain morale and team success.
Effective leadership involves engaging with your team at all levels, even in the most mundane situations. The army major's critique of senior leadership may have seemed harsh, but the truth was that those leaders were not only aware of the troops' challenges but also shared in their experiences. This approach, known as servant leadership, requires earning respect through hard work, empathy, and understanding. Trooping the line, an army tradition, emphasizes the importance of communication between leaders and their troops. Leaders must ask questions, listen, and address issues, no matter how small they may seem. Even the seemingly insignificant problem of broken laundry machines in Afghanistan could impact morale, and addressing it demonstrated the leader's commitment to his team. In modern organizations, effective communication and addressing the concerns of team members, no matter their rank or role, remains crucial for success.
Addressing both big and small problems: Effective leaders prioritize addressing all issues, big or small, to boost morale and prevent potential crises.
Effective leadership involves addressing both the big and small problems within an organization. The chancellor's decision to fix the paper towel issue may have seemed insignificant, but it significantly improved morale among employees. Similarly, in high-pressure situations like military operations, thorough inspections can prevent potential issues and ensure mission success. Leaders, no matter how busy, should prioritize addressing seemingly intractable problems and setting an example for their teams. As Colonel Elliot Bud Sindor demonstrated, inspections may seem tedious, but they hold immense value in maintaining operational readiness and instilling a sense of professionalism.
Effective inspections and clear communication in complex operations: Inspections of equipment and personnel, as well as clear communication, are vital for success in complex operations. Military training emphasizes these principles, but they apply to any situation requiring precision, coordination, and teamwork.
Effective communication and thorough inspections are crucial for success in complex operations. The speaker shared personal experiences as a SEAL officer, emphasizing the importance of inspecting equipment and personnel before missions to avoid last-minute complications. He also highlighted the significance of clear communication to ensure everyone understands their roles and the mission objectives. The speaker's anecdotes illustrate how these principles were instilled in SEAL training and have contributed to their success in combat situations. The importance of inspections and communication is not unique to the military; it applies to any complex endeavor where precision, coordination, and teamwork are essential.
Effective communication in large organizations: In large organizations or complex situations, effective communication is crucial. Go directly to the source, use a public address system, and put in extra effort to ensure important information reaches everyone.
Effective communication is essential for success, especially in large organizations or complex situations. The speaker shared an experience from his military career where important information was not being passed down the chain of command effectively. He conducted an informal survey and found that 75% of the time, the word was not getting through. He emphasized the importance of active communication and pursuing ways to ensure information reaches everyone, even if it means going directly to the source. He also mentioned the use of a public address system or "one mic" as an effective tool for ensuring everyone receives the same message. Additionally, he shared the metaphor of "when in doubt, overload" which can be applied to putting in extra effort to ensure a task is completed effectively. This can be costly, but the potential cost of failure is greater. Effective communication and putting in the extra effort can make all the difference in achieving success.
Overcoming setbacks through hard work and ownership: Leaders must take responsibility for mistakes, work harder, and regain trust after setbacks
Leaders face challenges and setbacks, and the way to overcome doubts and regain respect is through hard work and ownership of mistakes. Admiral McRaven shared personal experiences of being fired from commands and facing mission failures, but he persevered by working even harder and regaining the trust of his team. He emphasized that leaders must take responsibility for their mistakes and not deflect blame, but instead, use it as an opportunity to improve. McRaven's advice is valuable for anyone in a leadership position, as it highlights the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Standing up for what you believe in despite adversity: Advocating for your beliefs, even if met with criticism or opposition, can lead to significant positive outcomes in the long run.
Taking ownership of your actions and standing up for what you believe in, even if it means facing criticism or adversity, can lead to significant positive outcomes in the long run. This was exemplified by General Billy Mitchell, who faced a court martial for advocating for air power and the establishment of a unified air force despite strong opposition. Although he was found guilty at the time, history ultimately recognized his efforts and he is now known as the father of the US Air Force. It's important to remember that sometimes, standing tall for what you believe in, even if it means facing challenges or setbacks, can lead to great achievements and positive change.
Confidently facing investigations: Stay calm and assertive during investigations, cooperate with investigators, and do the right thing even in difficult situations.
Being investigated multiple times throughout his career did not intimidate the speaker, as he was confident in his actions and decisions. He was taught by his parents and mentors to remain calm and assertive during investigations, and he never hesitated to waive his rights and cooperate with investigators. The speaker's experience shows that being investigated is a normal part of certain professions, and it's essential to maintain composure and confidence throughout the process. Additionally, the speaker emphasized the importance of doing the right thing, even in difficult situations, and being willing to face the consequences of one's actions.
Transparency and clear communication are key in leadership: Leaders must set clear boundaries and enforce them strictly to maintain trust and adhere to rules, avoiding potential legal and reputational consequences.
Making tough decisions in high-pressure situations is an inevitable part of leadership, but trying to cover up mistakes or unethical behavior only leads to more problems. The speaker emphasizes that transparency and clear communication are essential to maintain trust and adherence to rules. He also highlights the importance of setting clear boundaries for those under your command to prevent them from crossing ethical lines and facing the consequences later. The consequences of trying to cover up mistakes or unethical behavior can be severe, including legal repercussions and damage to one's reputation. The speaker advises setting bright red lines and enforcing them strictly to ensure the well-being of those under your command and to avoid the potential for long-term negative consequences.
Adhere to clear ethical guidelines as 'bright red lines': Effective leadership involves sticking to ethical principles, even during hardships, to prevent potential war crimes and maintain organizational reputation.
Effective leadership in challenging situations requires adhering to clear ethical guidelines, even when it's difficult. These guidelines, represented by "bright red lines," help prevent potential war crimes and maintain the reputation of the organization. Additionally, having a trusted "swim buddy" or mentor is essential for growth and improvement, providing valuable feedback and support. As General Powell's story illustrates, becoming a great leader involves hard work, dedication, and a commitment to putting the team first. These principles apply to all levels of leadership, from ensigns to 4-star admirals. Remember, bringing your best every day is not just about the good days, but also the challenging ones.
Lead by example and care for your team: Effective leaders put in hard work, lift heavy burdens, and care for their team, earning respect and paving the way for advancement
Effective leadership involves putting in the hard work and considering those you lead as essential to the mission's success. You don't have to be in a formal leadership position to make an impact; everyone has a role and can contribute positively. Leaders lead by example, lifting the heaviest burdens and enduring hardships alongside their team. This dedication and care for those under their charge can earn their respect and love, paving the way for advancement and greater responsibilities. So, whether you're starting your military career or aiming for the rank of admiral, remember that being the first to take on challenges and the last to let go demonstrates the leadership qualities that can lead to success.
Be the best at your current rank: Focusing on being the best at your current rank and building strong relationships can lead to a more fulfilling military career than constantly striving for the next promotion.
Focusing on being the best at your current rank and position, rather than constantly striving for the next promotion, can lead to a more fulfilling and less competitive military career. The speaker, who joined the SEAL teams in the late 70s, shares his experience of how he and his peers all aimed to be the best at their respective ranks, and the importance of camaraderie and friendship over competition. He also mentions that as the ranks get smaller, competition increases, but there are also many people getting out of the military, creating opportunities for advancement. The speaker also shares an anecdote about how even though he became an admiral, he preferred the smaller house he had when he was a one-star officer because he was gone most of the time. Overall, the message is to focus on doing your best where you are and building strong relationships, rather than constantly striving for the next promotion.
The value of hard work and dedication in leadership and life: Admiral McRaven emphasized the importance of representing your community with dignity and honor, and the significance of simple but not easy principles in leadership and life.
While there may be perks to certain situations or roles, the true value lies in the hard work and dedication put into them. Admiral Bill McRaven, a retired U.S. Navy admiral and former commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, emphasized this during a conversation with Jocko Willink. McRaven shared stories of his time in the SEAL teams and the impact it had on him, emphasizing the importance of representing the community with dignity and honor. He also highlighted the significance of simple but not easy principles in leadership and life. McRaven's legacy as a leader in the Navy and special operations, as well as his impact on the SEAL community, is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication. The simple yet not easy principles of leadership, as outlined in McRaven's books and Willink's podcast, continue to inspire and guide individuals in their personal and professional growth.
Understanding the path to becoming an admiral: Asking thoughtful questions and being open to insights can lead to valuable lessons, revealing the importance of continuous learning and dedication.
Knowledge and understanding go beyond the surface level. In the discussion, it became clear that asking a seemingly simple question, "Do I have to be in the Navy to be an admiral?" revealed a lack of knowledge about the military hierarchy. However, the former commander turned the question into an opportunity to provide a valuable lesson. He explained that becoming an admiral, much like becoming a black belt in jujitsu, is not about meeting a specific requirement, but rather about dedication, hard work, and being ready for sacrifice. The exchange highlighted the importance of asking thoughtful questions and being open to the insights and wisdom that can come from unexpected places. Ultimately, the conversation underscored the value of continuous learning and the importance of approaching new challenges with curiosity and a willingness to grow.
The importance of following defined paths to advancement: Starting at the bottom and working hard can lead to promotions. Keep things clean and orderly, both literally and metaphorically, and having a supportive network can help keep you focused on your goals.
There are defined paths to advancement in various fields, whether it be in business or the military. These paths often involve starting at the bottom and working your way up through dedication and hard work. In some cases, there may be voting or selection processes involved in promotions. The use of the term "wire brush" as a verb, which originated from the navy, can serve as a reminder of the importance of keeping things clean and orderly, both metaphorically and literally. Additionally, having a supportive network, such as a friend or mentor, can help individuals stay focused on their goals and get back on track when they need it.
Promoting Healthy and Ethical Consumption: Consider products like Jockofuel for health benefits and Origin USA for ethical production. Check out recommended books and podcasts for personal growth.
The speaker is promoting various products and brands that offer benefits to the consumer's health and well-being, as well as ethical production. These include Jockofuel, a nutritional supplement, and Origin USA, a clothing brand that guarantees American-made production with no involvement in slavery. The speaker also mentions his own positive experiences with these products and encourages listeners to check them out. Additionally, he recommends books and podcasts for personal growth and leadership development. Overall, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making informed choices about what we consume and support, both for our own well-being and for ethical reasons.
Dedicate yourself to leadership and personal growth: Stay focused on goals, learn from distractions, support military families, and never stop improving
Leadership and personal growth require dedication and effort, just like training at the gym. You can learn more and get involved in supporting military members and their families by visiting extremeownership.com and America's Mighty Warriors.org. Be aware of the distractions and algorithms that try to take your focus away from your goals. Remember the words of Admiral McRaven, "The day you no longer believe you have something to prove, the day you no longer believe you must give it your all, the day you think you are entitled to special treatment, the day you think all your hard days are behind you is the day you are no longer the right leader for the job." And most importantly, never stop fighting, striving, and working to better yourself. A special thanks to Admiral McRaven for his service and sacrifice, as well as to all first responders for keeping us safe.
