Navy SEALs are known for their physical prowess, their courage in battle, their proficiency in tactics, and their ability to succeed despite impossible odds. This awe-striking reputation is the result of an unwavering mindset that doesn’t allow even the concept of defeat to ever be considered.
Everywhere you go, you will find exceptional leaders who have risen to the top and set the example for all to follow. These are the people who are highly regarded and who set the standard in everything they do. Because of their work ethic, enthusiasm, and professionalism, they have earned the respect of everyone around them, even those who hold positions above theirs. Most of us dream of someday having that type of success—to be regarded as the best.
An instructor a BUD/S once welcomed his class by telling them that they had a decision to make. He explained that there was no reason why any of them should not be able to make it through the course and that it all came down to two choices: Choose to give in to self-doubt and fear, or choose to be exceptional and pursue the dream of becoming an elite warrior.
Navy SEALs possess one trait that sets them apart from most people: The relentless pursuit of excellence that SEALs demonstrate in all they do. This trait lies at the core of the spirit of the Navy SEAL community. They simply choose to pursue excellence in everything they do. It isn’t easy to achieve, it doesn’t just happen—it requires dedication and self-discipline.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Richard Machowicz’s Unleash the Warrior Within. It is a testament of the mental fortitude that most SEALs display:
I had to get myself in the mindset of never giving up no matter what. A buddy of mine gave me a quote which stated, ‘A man can only be beaten in two ways: if he gives up or he dies.’ I had that quote in my wallet until the pencil marks rubbed off. I really lived that motto. I decided that if I am not dead, then I cannot quit .
This simple quote gave Machowicz the motivation he needed to fulfill his dream of being one of the exceptional men he admired. No amount of pain, no suffering, nothing short of dying would deter him from his goal.
I wish I could tell you that there is a quick and easy way to achieve this level of excellence. The truth is that there are no short-cuts. It is ultimately up to you to do the work. It won’t be easy and it won’t be fast, it is a hard road that takes time, effort, and a lot of heart. Just being a good performer won't cut it. You have to give everything you have just to make it to the next day. Just like managing stress, you have to focus on one piece at a time. So don't worry about the test you have in the afternoon. Your goal is to make it to breakfast. Then lunch, and so on. If you wake up knowing that every day will pose new challenges and that you are ready to face them head-on, you will be well equipped to achieve any goal you set.
Everything you’ve read so far focuses on a simple concept that is the foundation of SEAL success: Pursue excellence in everything you do, execute all tasks with vigor and intensity; winning can be the only acceptable outcome.
It’s your decision to make. Think about what goals you are striving to achieve. Whatever your objective may be, chances are it will require some level of focus, self-discipline, and determination. It’s as simple as that, no more excuses, simply go “all in” and decide that you are going to become an exceptional person.