Believe

Context and Initial Doubts

Jocko Willink, leading Task Unit Bruiser, faces a significant change in mission directives. Unlike previous deployments where the SEALs operated with U.S. or NATO forces, they were now required to conduct operations with the less capable Iraqi security forces. This shift presented an immense challenge given the Iraqi forces' poor training, lack of motivation, and questionable loyalty, dramatically increasing the perceived risk of missions.

Strategic Necessity of the Mission

Despite his initial severe reservations and skepticism about the effectiveness and logic of the mission, Willink realizes that for the Iraqis to eventually manage their country's security on their own, they would need firsthand experience. This understanding prompts him to reckon with the bigger picture—the strategic long-term goal of reducing U.S. military involvement by building Iraqi forces' capability to manage security independently.

Leadership Challenge and Acceptance

Willink recognizes the importance of believing in the mission to lead effectively. Despite his doubts, he chooses to adopt and internalize the mission necessity to inspire and lead his team convincingly. He orchestrates a meeting to address the team's concerns directly, using strategic explanation to cultivate understanding and acceptance among the SEALs.

Application of the Principle to Business

In a business scenario, a company implements a controversial compensation plan that is poorly understood by its managers, causing dissent and dissatisfaction. Through a leadership training session, it becomes evident that belief in the company’s strategy is crucial for buy-in. Willink advises the leadership to clarify the reasons behind the compensation strategy, emphasizing that understanding the 'why' is essential for the managers to accept and propagate the changes effectively.

Conclusion: The Importance of Belief in Leadership

The chapter underlines that a leader must not only strategize and execute operations but also fully believe in the mission to effectively lead and inspire others. Leaders should seek and provide clear justifications for their actions and decisions to foster trust and commitment from their followers. Understanding and believing in the strategic goals allows leaders and teams to navigate challenges and stay committed to the mission’s success.