Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven is a powerful, inspiring book based on lessons from Navy SEAL training. Adapted from his viral 2014 commencement speech at the University of Texas, this book presents 10 simple yet profound life lessons that emphasize discipline, resilience, and the power of small actions.
McRaven argues that success isn’t about grand gestures, but about small, consistent habits that build character and discipline. The book uses personal stories from military life to teach how simple routines—like making your bed every morning—can create a mindset of accomplishment and discipline that carries into all areas of life.
At its core, Make Your Bed is about how small changes in your daily routine can lead to greater success, confidence, and resilience in life.
Why This Book is a Must-Read?
✅ 10 Practical Life Lessons from a Navy SEAL
McRaven shares ten lessons from SEAL training that apply to business, relationships, and personal growth.
🔹 Key Lessons from the Book:
✔ Start your day with a task completed – Making your bed every morning gives you a sense of accomplishment and sets a productive tone.
✔ Embrace the hardships of life – Failure and setbacks are inevitable, but persistence and mental toughness build character.
✔ Don’t fear failure—use it to grow – SEAL training teaches that resilience comes from pushing past your limits.
✔ Stand up to bullies – Whether in military or life, having courage to fight injustice is essential.
✔ Never go at it alone – Teamwork and strong relationships are key to overcoming life’s biggest challenges.
Example: SEAL training involves grueling physical challenges, but those who succeed are the ones who embrace the discomfort, rely on their teammates, and push forward despite failures.
✅ The Power of Small Actions & Daily Discipline
McRaven emphasizes that great success is built on small, consistent actions.
✔ If you can’t do the little things right, you’ll never do the big things right.
✔ Making your bed, exercising, and showing up on time build self-discipline and structure.
✔ Daily habits compound into long-term success.
Example: Many high achievers—from athletes to CEOs—follow strict routines that help them stay disciplined and focused.
✅ Overcoming Failure & Developing Mental Toughness
The book teaches that failure is not the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey.
✔ SEAL training is designed to break people mentally, but those who push through failure develop unshakable resilience.
✔ Instead of quitting, adapt and learn from challenges.
Example: McRaven tells the story of “The Circus”—a brutal extra training session given to struggling SEAL trainees. While exhausting, those who endured became stronger and more capable.
✅ Short, Simple, and Highly Motivational
Unlike long self-help books, Make Your Bed is concise, direct, and packed with wisdom. The writing is straightforward and action-driven, making it a perfect book for quick inspiration.
Example: Each chapter is focused on one simple lesson, making it easy to read and apply.
What Could Be Better?
🔹 More depth on certain lessons – The book touches on great concepts but doesn’t deeply explore them.
🔹 Some lessons may feel basic – While powerful, some advice (like “never give up”) may seem familiar to those who read self-improvement books.
🔹 Lacks step-by-step guidance – The book is more about inspiration than a structured plan for success.
Who Should Read It?
If you want a short, inspiring book on discipline, resilience, and success, this book is a must-read!
✔ Anyone looking for daily motivation – Simple yet powerful lessons on success and mindset.
✔ Students & young professionals – Learn the importance of discipline, hard work, and persistence.
✔ Leaders & entrepreneurs – Build a strong mindset and a disciplined routine.
✔ People facing challenges or setbacks – Discover how to overcome adversity and keep pushing forward.
Conclusion
Make Your Bed is a powerful, no-nonsense book that teaches how small habits lead to a disciplined, successful life. Whether you’re looking to build mental toughness, improve daily routines, or just get inspired, this book is a must-read for anyone striving to be better.
Want to change your life with small, powerful habits? Read Make Your Bed today! What’s one small habit that helps you stay disciplined? Drop a comment below!