As he went through the motions step by step, he uncovered a series of simple but creative ways to “pre-optimize” his performance.įor example, Black realized he would be at a disadvantage in the pull-up portion of the test. Weeks ahead of the screening test, Black checked out the testing grounds, to visualize himself doing the challenges. For those of us in the business world, that’s where the real lesson lies. Importantly, this preparation wasn’t just about physical training - which Black did plenty of - but also about finding ways to create an advantage for himself. I don’t mean he cheated, rather he realized he needed intensive preparation if he were to stand a chance.
Candidates have to be in top shape to gain admission to the selective program.īlack, a doughy guy with no military experience, knew his chances of making it through the test were next to none … unless he hacked it. To even be considered for the elite unit, you need to pass the notorious Navy SEAL physical screening test, which involves completing a 500-yard swim and 1.5-mile run in breathtaking time, as well as doing extended sets of push-ups, sit-ups and pull-ups, all in quick succession. But the critical moment - the one that has the most bearing on the business world - dates to when he first set out to gain admission into the Navy SEAL training program against all odds. The full story of Black’s transformation is inspiring. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
