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.