If you want to change the world, start by making your bed. This simple advice from a retired Navy SEAL is a metaphor and literal call to action in his inspiring new book, Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World (PublicAffairs) began as a rousing graduation speech at the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. Covering subjects such as discipline and failure, integrity and leadership through service, hard work, and sacrifice, McRaven encourages readers to take their lives seriously and make choices that reflect their values.

In Make Your Bed, Admiral McRaven reflects on his journey and shares the ten principles that have helped him succeed. Each one begins with a simple action you can take to improve your life. Then, it explains how that seemingly small thing will result in a positive outcome or decision in the long run. These steps are woven together so they build off each other.

In this instant New York Times bestseller and source of inspiration, Admiral McRaven shares solutions to success that he learned during a storied Navy SEAL career–including working with four presidents and his role in the mission to kill Osama bin Laden.

Admiral William H. McRaven’s graduation speech at the University of Texas has gone viral. Based on the address, Make Your Bed is one part biography and motivational advice for living a successful life. In this timely book, Admiral McRaven shares his personal stories, memorable experiences from the battlefield, and valuable lessons learned from other great leaders to inspire readers to recognize their potential for greatness and overcome any obstacle in life.

About Make Your Bed Book

Based on a Navy SEAL’s inspiring graduation speech, this #1 New York Times bestseller of powerful life lessons “should be read by every leader in America” (Wall Street Journal).

If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.

On May 17, 2014, Admiral William H. McRaven addressed the University of Texas graduating class at Austin on their Commencement day. Taking inspiration from the university’s slogan, “What starts here changes the world,” he shared the ten principles he learned during Navy Seal training that helped him overcome challenges not only in his training and long Naval career but also throughout his life. He explained how anyone could use these basic lessons to improve themselves and the world.

Admiral McRaven’s original speech went viral with over 10 million views. Building on the core tenets in his speech, McRaven now recounts tales from his own life and those of people he encountered during his military service who dealt with hardship and made tough decisions with determination, compassion, honor, and courage. Told with great humility and optimism, this timeless book provides simple wisdom, practical advice, and words of encouragement that inspire readers to achieve more, even in life’s darkest moments.
“Powerful.” –USA Today

“Full of captivating personal anecdotes from inside the national security vault.” –Washington Post

“Superb, smart, and succinct.” –Forbes.