Yes, this is a book about Navy Seals. Yes, there are stories with graphic depictions of events in real wars. And yes this is a best selling book aimed at executives. The two authors, Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, have transformed themselves from America's elite soldiers into two of the most sought after business consultants out in the world. I loved it so much I bought it for a couple of the best dealmakers and businessmen I know. If you want to truly learn how to lead, have a massive positive impact on your employees and generate incredible success than go read this book and take a hard look at yourself in your work environment.
Here are a couple of my favorite lessons:
“You can’t make people listen to you. You can’t make them execute. That might be a temporary solution for a simple task. But to implement real change, to drive people to accomplish something truly complex or difficult or dangerous—you can’t make people do those things. You have to lead them.”
“There are no bad units, only bad officers. This captures the essence of what Extreme Ownership is all about.”
“Leadership is simple, but not easy.”
“Extreme Ownership. Leaders must own everything in their world. There is no one else to blame.”
And this last one is my favorite because it's the hardest of them all-
“But, in fact, discipline is the pathway to freedom.”
Jocko and Leif have taken their war time lessons and created unparalleled instructions for executives who are ready to tackle their internal problems head on, remove their ego, dissect their processes and improve in all areas of their company.
Are you a member of the 0445 club yet?