Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual Mk1-MOD1 Paperback – January 1, 2021

This review is for the hardcover "Mk1-MOD1" edition. In short, this is a miniature coffee table book of aphorisms (or short quotes). If that's not what you're looking for, look elsewhere. Jocko has some novel-length training manuals if you want those. This book is very visual, so it's not good in a Kindle edition. Get it hardcover, or not at all.So what is "Discipline Equal Freedom"? It's a semi-pocket-sized tome of motivation. The idea is to present Jocko's core ideals in a digestible form. Jocko blends stoicism and American patriotism into a some ultra-powerful quips. Things like, "Step. Step. Go. Now." or "YOU WILL WIN". Jocko's hope is clearly that if you read two pages of aphorisms, set the book down, and never pick it up again because you're busy changing your life, that would be "GOOD."But what is it really? It's black and white. Jocko likes monochrome. You end up with a lot of white on gray, gray on black, and so on. This means the book is not always super high contrast, and that's a challenge for some people. For the average person though it's perfectly readable. It's often white text on a black-and-white photo of something motivational, like Jocko's home gym covered in sweat after a workout. The words are simple and direct. Jocko says why he's doing this in the first pages, and the rest of the book is just supplemental material to the central point - basically, own your life own. Don't wait. Go.The mk1 edition, if I'm remembering the first printing correctly, seems to have some more readable contrast throughout. It seems like there were some tweaks. There is supposed to be extra content too, but without having them side-by-side I can't really tell the impact. The important thing to me is that I wanted this book, and this is the best edition as of writing.So it's 247 pages of aphorisms. A picture of Jocko, with words telling you to work out and eat right. I like it. If you need further details, there's plenty of references on what to do on Jocko's podcast and in his other books. He even makes a series of kids books, so his material can suit people of any age. But this book is clearly targeting his adult audience, and people who need some quick pick-me-ups. If you'd like to be able to thumb open a page, and read Jocko telling you to "Grab time by the throat" this is the book for you. Recommended.

Undeniable, realistic and blunt. Not too wordy and gets straight to the point of trying to be better, from a guy who has true, proven discipline.

Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willink is a motivational and inspiring book that encourages readers to embrace discipline as a means of achieving success and personal fulfillment. Willink, a former Navy SEAL and co-founder of the leadership consulting firm Echelon Front, draws on his extensive military experience to provide practical insights and strategies for achieving self-discipline and self-mastery.The book is divided into several sections, each focused on a different aspect of discipline and how it can be applied in different areas of life, from physical fitness and nutrition to time management and goal-setting. Throughout the book, Willink emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's own life and choices, and the power of discipline in shaping one's destiny.One of the strengths of the book is Willink's straightforward and no-nonsense approach to self-improvement. He does not offer quick fixes or magic solutions, but rather emphasizes the need for hard work, dedication, and consistency in achieving success. He also provides practical advice and tools for developing discipline, such as establishing daily routines and setting clear goals.Another strength of the book is Willink's emphasis on the importance of mental discipline and resilience. He acknowledges that life is full of setbacks and challenges, but argues that by embracing discipline and pushing oneself outside of one's comfort zone, one can build the mental toughness necessary to overcome adversity and achieve success.Overall, Discipline Equals Freedom is an inspiring and empowering book that offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to develop greater discipline and achieve their goals. Whether you are an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to improve your life, this book is definitely worth a read.

This book reads like a picture book. I don't mean that in a childish or primitive way, but this is not a philosophy book or a novel or anything like that. 2 or 3 pages per chapter. There are not many words per page, but not many words are needed. Not from Jocko. He tells it like it is. Bluntly. Briefly. Minimal philosophy and maximum practicality. Calling it a Field Manual is actually accurate. You can read through it all but also make sure to save the sections that are most helpful to you, so you can reference them. I might buy another copy to start tearing pages out of and keeping them close by.I like to read longer, more "sophisticated" books such as those written by Robert Greene or Ryan Holiday, but I love this book because it is the exact opposite. I like to read it in the early mornings before my brain is firing on all cylinders, and sometimes the later evenings when my brain needs a break. The simple format and straightforward language is perfect for reinforcing these values without contemplation. Makes it more instinctual, perhaps?I enjoy Jocko's perspectives and he's an ideal person to learn about discipline from. This truly is a "field manual" for it.

Short but powerful. Much it contained things that I already know but there’s always that nugget or two that make the read worthwhile.

Jocko gets deep into discipline! Worth the read if you lack initiative, motive, and overall discipline. I recommend reading the book !

The book is great for content but it fell apart as I got to the middle of it. The backing it binding could be improved.

The book and its contents keep it simple.You want to accomplish something. "Do it."I like the information and the way it's presented.It motivates you to do something now, and you don't stop until you're done.