Not all college commencements are created equal. Few are memorable, as few have something to say—not the case with Navy Seal Admiral William H. McRaven. This Man lays out a Plan that maketh good humans—particularly a Planned Man.

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World

Buy it on:

Buy it

This warrior-teacher—extracted from blood, toil, sweat and tears from Seal training—captures and conveys a mindset applicable to men of veal and steel. His speech is a must watch and read! Here are my notes:

1. Sweat the details—little things matter and compound. This speech draws from the best-selling book, Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World.
2. “If you want to change the world, find someone to help you paddle.”
3. “If you want to change the world, measure a person by the size of their heart…”
4. Life is not fair—get over being a “Sugar Cookie,” and “keep moving forward.”
5. There is a silver lining on getting singled out—your weaknesses disappear. (“The Circus”)
6. Sometimes you need to jump head first, to break through. (“Obstacle Course”)
7. “Don’t Back Down from Sharks.” Be calm and punch it in the nose, if you find yourself in the company of one.
8. Bring your calm, composed best to your darkest moments. (“Under the Keel.”)
9. The Power of Hope: when in Hell, sing. (“Hell Week”)
10. “If you want to change the world, don’t ever, ever ring the bell.”

This American Leonidas really sticks the landing of this speech:

“Know that life is not fair and that you will fail often. But if you take some risks, step up when the times are toughest; face down the bullies; lift up the downtrodden, and never, ever give up. If you do these things, then the next generation—and the generations that follow—will live in a world far better than the one we have today.”

I bought the book, after watching. Follow the affiliated link here or below, if you are similarly disposed. (Help a Guy out!) Here are the economics of the digital economy: you going through PM to access Amazon neither costs nor saves you a dime, but it makes us—your site—a dime. (It’s Bezos’ money.)