#58: Mindset of a Navy SEAL - Commander Mark Divine
Nov 10, 2020
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Commander Mark Divine, ex-Navy SEAL Commander, shares his journey from Wall Street to becoming a SEAL. Topics include meditation in SEAL training, comfort in the water, living with purpose, integrated training for personal growth, and the power of awakening awareness. He also discusses his morning ritual and recommends warrior books and movies.
Maintaining a short-term focus during training helps overcome challenges and stay motivated.
The power of team support and leadership can empower individuals to succeed together.
Having a clear purpose and being aligned with one's calling is crucial for motivation and personal growth.
Deep dives
Integration of Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Training
Commander Mark Devine, a former Navy SEAL, describes the integration of physical, mental, and spiritual training in his journey. He explains how his practice of Zen meditation led him to pursue Navy SEAL training, despite pressure to follow a different path. Devine combined principles from martial arts, yoga, and CrossFit to develop a unique training model for himself. He emphasizes the importance of developing mastery in each of these areas to create a balanced, aligned, and integrated self.
Challenges in Navy SEAL Training
Devine provides insights into the challenges of Navy SEAL training, particularly during Hell Week. He highlights the importance of controlling one's sense of time and not allowing negative thoughts to dominate. He shares personal experiences of enduring intense physical training, swimming underwater for long distances, and dealing with difficult situations, such as being attacked underwater or carrying heavy logs. Devine attributes his success in SEAL training to his ability to remain present, focus on his teammates, and adapt to challenging circumstances.
Five Mountains Training and the Evolution of Self
Devine introduces the concept of the Five Mountains Training, which encompasses physical, mental, emotional, intuitive, and service development. He calls it 'Vertical Development,' seeking to evolve one's entire being through the integration of these five domains. Devine explains how he developed training programs, such as SEAL Fit and unbeatable mind, that effectively combine these aspects. He emphasizes the need to train daily, weekly, quarterly, and annually in each domain, working towards mastery and aligning with one's calling. This comprehensive development approach aims to create transformed individuals ready to serve humanity.
Importance of Short-Term Focus and Team Support in Training
One of the main takeaways from the podcast is the importance of maintaining a short-term focus during training. The speaker shares personal experiences of how just focusing on the task at hand and not being overwhelmed by future challenges helped them get through rigorous training. They emphasize the need to prioritize what is right in front of you and not worry about what comes next. Additionally, the speaker highlights the power of team support and leadership. By making it about the team rather than oneself, leaders can motivate and empower their teammates to carry their load and succeed together.
The Importance of Clear Why and Self-Alignment
Another key point discussed in the podcast is the significance of having a clear purpose and being aligned with one's calling. The speaker emphasizes that a strong why is crucial for maintaining motivation and overcoming challenges. They share examples of individuals who quit or lost their motivation during training because their why was not aligned with their true purpose. It is emphasized that self-awareness and clarity are necessary to avoid regrets and lead a fulfilling life. The speaker also mentions the importance of character development and values in the journey of personal growth and transformation.
Mark Divine is an ex-Navy SEAL Commander, serial entrepreneur, and NY Times bestselling author.
Mark, a self-described "warrior monk," is a master of human performance, both mental and physical. As you'll hear he started out on Wall Street before getting into martial arts, entering the SEALs (where he was the Honor Man of his class), and starting multiple million-dollar businesses, including SEALFIT.
Topics in this episode include Zen, Navy SEAL training, mental toughness, and his unique model of training that combines principles from martial arts, yoga and CrossFit.