‘Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win’, is a book written by Jocko Willink which chronicles the author’s time as a SEAL officer, and how he applied the principles of ‘extreme ownership’ to lead his troops to victory in some of America’s most high-profile military engagements during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The book provides readers with an inside look at the mind-set and tactics that allow elite special forces units like Navy SEALs to achieve seemingly impossible goals in chaotic, high-stress environments – something that can be applied in any field or workplace setting.
For who is this book for ?
This book is definitely for people who are interested in leadership, Special Forces tactics and just want to see what it’s like to be a Navy SEAL.
Pros :
- The book provides an interesting and unique perspective on leadership, particularly in high-stress environments
- It is written by a Navy SEAL officer who has first-hand experience of leading troops in combat
- The principles of ‘extreme ownership’ can be applied to any field or workplace setting
Cons :
- The prose can be dense and a bit dry in parts
- It may be tough to apply some of the concepts without having first hand military experience
- Some readers might find certain sections (e.g., those focusing on detailed tactical maneuvers) to be too specific or boring
Learn more about the author
Jocko Willink is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL officer, and one of the most highly decorated combat veterans of our time. After leaving the military, he started Echelon Front – an organization that teaches leadership fundamentals to business professionals and entrepreneurs. He is also the author of ‘Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual’.
Reader Reviews
“Solid lessons on leadership straight from the source. I definitely recommend this book to anyone in a position of authority or looking for ways to improve themselves and those around them.”
“I found Extreme Ownership to be a fantastic read! I’m not in the military, but Jocko’s principles of leadership and accountability can be universally applied. His stories are captivating and demonstrate how these Navy SEALs utilize teamwork, discipline, and decisive action to achieve success even when the odds seem insurmountable. This book is motivating from beginning to end!”
“Jocko Willink’s ‘Extreme Ownership’ is one of the most insightful and impactful books I have ever read. It has helped me to change my life for the better by teaching me how to take ownership of not only my actions, but also the results that come from them.”
“Jocko Willink has written a masterpiece on how to take ownership of any situation and achieve success. Extreme Ownership provides clear insights into the mindset and principles that Navy SEALs use in order to win even under the most difficult circumstances. Leaders at all levels will benefit from reading this book.”