Leadership Principles: Lessons from Extreme Ownership

Leadership Principles: Lessons from Extreme Ownership
By Jocko Willink & Leif Babin
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1. Extreme Ownership
As a leader, I accept total responsibility for outcomes—successes and failures alike. I do not cast blame. I own the mission, the plan, and the performance of my team.
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2. No Bad Teams, Only Bad Leaders
I recognize that leadership drives performance. If my team struggles, I evaluate and elevate my leadership first—because strong leadership transforms teams.
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3. Believe in the Mission
I commit fully to the mission, aligning my actions and decisions with its purpose. When I believe, I can inspire others to believe and execute with passion and clarity.
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4. Check the Ego
I lead with humility, always open to feedback and new ideas. Ego must never get in the way of sound judgment, collaboration, or team success.
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5. Cover and Move
I promote a culture of teamwork and mutual support. Silos are broken down, and collaboration is prioritized to achieve shared objectives.
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6. Keep it Simple
I simplify plans and communication so that they are clear, concise, and executable under pressure. Complexity creates confusion—simplicity enables action.
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7. Discipline Equals Freedom
I build disciplined processes and habits that create flexibility and resilience. Through discipline, my team gains the freedom to maneuver and succeed.