Jocko Willink is a decorated former Navy Seal who spent 20 years in the Navy and was part of two elite SEAL teams. After retiring, he took his experience and leadership skills into the real world. Today he is a best-selling author and podcaster who creates incredibly motivational content for the masses. 

In 2010 he retired and founded Echelon Front to teach leadership principles that he learned on the battlefield. His book, Extreme Ownership, is all about helping people take control of their lives and teams.

Use these 6 Jocko Willink leadership quotes to lead others and win in life.

“Overconfidence was risky in such a hostile environment, a mistake most often made by warriors who had never truly been tested.” – Jocko Willink

Confidence is needed for success but overconfidence can be your downfall. Don’t have a know it all, overconfident mentality. Learn to believe in yourself but stay open to learning new opportunities. 

“Ego clouds and disrupts everything.” – Jocko Willink

Ego has brought down some of the greatest leaders in history. Staying ground is so important to make clear, sound decisions.

In ancient Rome, leaders would celebrate their triumphant victories while being cheered by the masses. But during the ceremony another person stood next to them whispering “Remember, you are mortal.” This helped keep their ego in check and not make unwise decisions based on an inflated ego!

“Leadership requires belief in the mission and unyielding perseverance to achieve victory.” – Jocko Willink Quotes

If you want to be a great leader you need to have clarity on what you are trying to achieve. More clarity will lead to more belief in yourself and your team.

Show others that you are willing to persevere when things get tough and keep going toward the mission.

“The goal of all leaders should be to work themselves out of a job. When mentored and coached properly, the junior leader can eventually replace the senior leader, allowing the senior leader to move on to the next level of leadership.”– Jocko Willink

Great leaders aren’t trying to stay in one position forever. If you want to be a great leader you need to train and mentor others.

This is the surest way to make sure you advance in your life and your career. You are never too young to help teach, develop, and inspire others.

“When personal agendas become more important than the team and the overarching mission’s success, performance suffers and failure ensues.” – Jocko Willink

Becoming a great leader means putting your team’s agenda in front of your own. The best leaders are never selfish.

“Implementing Extreme Ownership requires checking your ego and operating with a high degree of humility. Admitting mistakes, taking ownership, and developing a plan to overcome challenges are integral to any successful team.” – Jocko Willink Quotes

If you want to be a great leader admit when you are wrong and keep your ego in check. Take ownership, make a plan and lead your team to greatness.

Use these Jocko Willink quotes to become a truly elite leader. His book, “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win” also has tons of amazing stories and resource to help you level up.