40% rule

Wednesday, October 4

There is this idea with Navy SEALs called the 40% rule. When you are in the middle of a workout, of a training, of a drill, or of a battle, at some point your brain tells you that your are tired. Like the dam on a river, it says enough. You can’t go any further.

The problem with our brains it that they are designed for comfort. So at the first sign of discomfort, they try to limit our efforts and redirect us toward something easier. SEALs believe that when this moment hits, you’ve actually only used 40% of your potential. There is still 60% more to give. The question is will you battle the fear, the comfort, the insecurity, the doubt and unlock that 60%? Most people won’t.

It’s a reminder that on our pursuit of progress there will be multiple moments where your mind tells you that you are done, that you’ve had enough, that this is your limit. That voice is lying. You are capable of more than you realize.

In these moments you have to talk to yourself, remind yourself of why you started, and just take the next step.


Keep chopping wood. 🪵🪓

-Kevin

A reminder for those who are in the sports world, we send a BETTER newsletter out every Thursday. A short, practical idea that is backed by research to help you become a better leader and build a better team. Subscribe here.