Reflection on William H. McRaven

Reflections on reading William H. McRaven:

• Real change begins with the small things. “If you want to change the world, start by making your bed.” It’s not just about finishing a task—it’s about doing small things great. The care and excellence we bring to everyday actions create the foundation for bigger achievements.

• No one succeeds alone: “If you want to change the world, find someone to help you paddle.” Life is a team effort, and strength comes from supporting and being supported.

• Influence multiplies Impact. If each of us positively impacts just ten people, and those ten influence ten more, the ripple becomes a wave.

• Courage and risk. In SEAL training, one of the hardest challenges is swimming beneath a ship in total darkness. You can’t see where you’re going, and fear presses in from all sides. Don’t let fear stop you—face it, move forward, and trust yourself in uncertainty.

And above all, McRaven highlights the power of hope. Hope keeps us going in the hardest moments, reminding us that tomorrow can be better and that our efforts matter.