Extreme Ownership

I like tools and tactics, but when reading, I also like engaging stories. This book is loaded with them, offering a raw and authentic approach to leadership.

I liked how Willink and Babin pull valuable business takeaways from intense experiences on the battlefield. And I liked that a major takeaway is the importance of accepting absolute responsibility for what you do. No one’s going to argue with these guys.

I found the book totally empowering. 

Coming from a military background, and having fought in Iraq a couple of times, and having personally known Jocko’s commander, I totally could relate to the environment he speaks about in his book.

But what makes his book so rewarding to read, is how he not only survived in this environment, but how he thrived in some of the most challenging circumstances any human being could find themselves. Jocko demonstrates what it takes to successfully lead in the crucible of ground combat, and he makes the key transition of how these leadership lessons apply to any other person who has… show more.

This book is powerful and moving. As leaders, we must never “pass the buck” and blame others. We need to step up, take accountability, especially when things don’t go as planned as they invariably will at times.

In this book, these principles are put to the test in the most challenging environment known to man: wartime. Jocko and Leif describe in heart-pounding details why this approach had to be taken in some of the most extreme, life-and-death situations. They explain why it is important to learn why our superiors (bosses) sometimes question us or want/need more clarity and for us… show more.

If books about the military make you wince due to potential stereotyping, please just give me a minute to convince you otherwise.

Not only is this book riveting with real stories from the most decorated Special Operations unit in the Iraq war, it translates the lessons learned into compelling, actionable advice that you can use when facing any kind of challenge in your work or personal life.

Fundamentally it’s a book about taking complete ownership for outcomes: a refreshing and contrarian approach to dithering organizations that require twenty meetings to get anything done. It will make you a better leader… show more.

I picked up this book when I was hoping to learn more about the life of Navy SEALs while I was writing a character with this background. In addition to gaining this knowledge, I also found an incredibly interesting narrative mixed in with solid business and life advice. I have lost track of how many times I’ve recommended this read for people hoping to improve their management skills or people who are interested in learning more about this difficult job.

As a real estate Investor it is very easy to fall back and blame others for this or that. This book helps you appreciate that that is not helpful and leads to bad outcomes. Instead, you need to take ownership of all outcomes and learn from them. Real estate investing has many twists and turns and many of them are negative. You can either blame others or you can learn the lesson and move on.