AUGUST 19, 2022
As I was driving into the office the other day, I became interested in the idea of what it took to become a Navy Seal along with how they thought (their instincts) once they finished their training. Since my first personal introduction to the military during my short, but “Oh so powerful” six-weeks boot camp with the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class in the summer of 1968 at Quantico, Virginia at the ripe old age of 19 years; I have been enamored with how difficult it is to become one of the most elite group of soldiers in the world. First, I love the Seal’s mottos which include: “The only easy day was yesterday;” “It pays to be a winner;” and “Never out of the fight.” I get chills just thinking about the missions they have accomplished, the lives this group has saved or impacted along with the wisdom, courage, self-awareness, love of country, (along with their fellow Band of Brothers) and pride they must have for themselves and the group.
My thoughts are these; “What are the instincts they learn as a Navy Seal, based on the rigorous training they go through?” The main thing I took away, which was indoctrinated in them from day one, is; “Focus Outside Yourself.” This goes right along with what we have been talking about in our “thinking more of others rather than ourselves.” (Service to others) “Focusing outside yourself” means that looking inward constantly, saps the willpower and makes it harder for you AND others to achieve and succeed. By having an outward mindset, you are primarily concerned with others and how to help them, even in small ways. Being outward not only facilitates the success of others, it will help minimize your own suffering. (Check out the Navy Seal BUD/S training)
Of course, the greatest characteristics of a Navy Seal include important personal traits of maturity, self-assurance, and self-confidence. You should be willing to follow orders and able to work under stressful or hazardous conditions. Seals are organized, (great arrangers) trained, and equipped to conduct a variety of Special Operation missions in all operational environments. Their training is extremely demanding physically, mentally, and spiritually. The idea of the training is to help each member to be fearless because of the training they endure. They even have a secret sauce that they call “Habituation.” This simply means “the more you’re exposed to something that you initially fear, the less it will fear you and eventually you become immune to it.” The Seals also have what they call “The 40% Rule.” This is the idea that when our mind is telling us to quit, that our body has actually only used up to 40% of it’s potential. WOW! What perfect examples that would help all of us to “train ourselves” for life. Life can be hard, but habituation makes it more tolerable by working and loving together.
We all crave to belong to something substantial in this world.. I am not saying everyone should attempt to join the Navy Seals. But it might be good to study them to learn more about yourself, what motivates you, your passions, your resiliency, and your competence level. Don’t forget integrity and caring which will help build a great culture wherever you go. Find where YOU belong and be the best you can be by bringing value to your organization. Study and honor the “Instincts of a Navy Seal” and you just might find what you are looking for in yourself.
Elevator Guy
Quote for the Day; “When a man finds that it is his destiny to suffer, he will have to accept his suffering as a task; his single and unique task. He will have to acknowledge the fact that even in suffering , he is unique and alone in the universe. No one can relieve him of his suffering or suffer in his place. (Someone already did that for you with his death) His unique opportunity lies in the way in which he bears his burden.” Dr. Victor Frankl from “Man’s Search for Meaning.”