Make Your Bed

Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World

By: William H. McRaven

Narrated by: William H. McRaven

Based on a Navy SEAL's inspiring graduation speech, this #1 New York Times bestseller is full of of powerful, life-changing 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 graduating class of the University of Texas 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—lessons that would help change themselves—and the world—for the better.

Admiral McRaven's original speech went viral with over 10 million views. Building on the core tenets laid out in his speech, McRaven now recounts tales from his own life and from those of people he encountered during his military service. Told with great humility and optimism, this timeless book provides simple wisdom, practical advice, and words of encouragement that will 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

Critic reviews

"Should be read by every leader in America... [MAKE YOUR BED] is a book to inspire your children and grandchildren to become everything that they can. It is a book to discuss with your executive leadership team as a spur to meeting shared goals. Most of all, it is a book that will leave you with tears in your eyes."—Wall Street Journal

"Full of captivating personal anecdotes from inside the national security vault...McRaven's lessons, like his commencement speech, extend far beyond his bed-making. He devotes the 10-chapter book to lessons about moving beyond failure, standing up to bullies and giving others hope."—Washington Post

"McRaven...has taken the genesis of what he learned during SEAL training and his nearly four decades in Navy Special Operations into a thin, powerful book."—USA Today

"Exquisitely simple...superb, smart, and succinct ideas."—Forbes

Short but effective

What made the experience of listening to Make Your Bed the most enjoyable?

If you aren't feeling goose bumps or that internal fire doesn't light... re listen till it does because it will.

Very inspirational

My husband and I listened to this book together. We are both veterans but you don’t have to be military affiliated to appreciate and understand how little things, even in these situations, go a long way. Be kind.

Good Stuff

Great content and inspirational, but if you are unsure on whether to purchase or not may be worth it to just listen to his speech at UT before buying this book. Does not go into too much deeper detail.

Will definitely recommend.

A must read for everyone… advice that will make the world a better place

A strong successful retired gentleman recommended this book to me. I found every word to be viable and pertinent to living a life of meaning. The advice will make your life better and and the life of others better. It would be great for graduates of all ages, great for every phase of your life...as a reminder of what matters while you're here on this earth.
Thank you Wayne for this inspirational recommendation and also for being the kind of person that continues to pursue a better life.

Good and meaningful advise, Be Inspire!

Very good for military or civilian. Great to hear real world experiences and how it can inspire others to do great. I really like the author narrating the book.