How to Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven

April 12, 2024

đź“– Started: April 5, 2024

âś… Finished: April 12, 2024

Why This Book Matters

A simple lesson from Navy SEAL training: if you want to change the world, start by making your bed. This book shows how small disciplines compound into extraordinary outcomes.

Key Takeaways

Start Small

The first task of the day sets the tone. Making your bed gives you one win before you've even left your room. Small wins create momentum.

The Power of Routine

Navy SEALs don't succeed because they're superhuman. They succeed because they've mastered the fundamentals through relentless repetition. Excellence is consistency, not perfection.

Little Things Matter

In life-or-death situations, attention to detail saves lives. In everyday life, attention to detail builds trust, creates opportunities, and compounds into significant advantages.

You Can't Go It Alone

No SEAL completes training alone. Success requires a team. The same is true in life—surround yourself with people who push you to be better.

What I've Applied

I've made bed-making non-negotiable. It's a 30-second task that ensures I start every day with a completed task. This small discipline has cascaded into better habits throughout my day.

The Bottom Line

This book is a reminder that greatness isn't about grand gestures—it's about doing the small things consistently well. Master the fundamentals, and everything else follows.