"GOOD": TURNING CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES

INSPIRED BY JOCKO WILLINK

Life is unpredictable. At times, it feels like the odds are stacked against us, with challenges and setbacks appearing at every turn. In those moments, it’s easy to feel defeated or frustrated. But what if we reframed our perspective? What if, instead of lamenting, we responded with a single, powerful word: “Good.”

This is the mindset that Navy SEAL and leadership coach Jocko Willink advocates. In his book Extreme Ownership, Willink teaches us to take full responsibility for our actions and outcomes. One of his most famous lessons centers on the word “Good,” a philosophy that encourages us to see the silver lining in every situation.

The Power of "Good"

When faced with adversity, Willink advises us to say “Good” and move forward. Why? Because even in difficult times, there’s always something positive to take away. Here’s how he breaks it down:

? Failure? Good. You now have a chance to learn and grow.

? Plans fell through? Good. You have time to regroup and create something better.

? Unexpected challenges? Good. You can test your resilience and develop new skills.

? Didn’t get what you wanted? Good. It wasn’t your time—something greater might be on the horizon.

This simple word becomes a tool to transform negative moments into opportunities for improvement, preparation, or discovery. It’s not about ignoring pain or pretending everything is perfect. Instead, it’s about choosing to focus on what can be gained rather than lost.

A Mindset of Growth

Saying “Good” doesn’t mean dismissing the seriousness of challenges or hardships. It means acknowledging them, taking ownership, and using them as fuel to move forward. Here’s how you can apply this mindset:

1. Embrace the Lesson. Every failure teaches us something valuable. Whether it’s a mistake at work, a personal setback, or a missed opportunity, there’s always a takeaway that can make you stronger.

2. Stay Open to Change. When plans don’t go your way, it’s often because a better path awaits. Remaining flexible and open to new possibilities can lead to unexpected success.

3. Shift Your Perspective. Instead of seeing obstacles as roadblocks, view them as stepping stones. What skills, insights, or relationships can you build because of this moment?

4. Trust the Bigger Picture. Sometimes, life’s timing doesn’t align with our plans, but that doesn’t mean it’s the end. Trust that there’s a greater purpose unfolding, even if you can’t see it yet.

Looking for the Opportunity in Every Moment

The “Good” philosophy aligns with a broader truth: life is full of opportunities, but they’re often hidden in moments of difficulty. When we train ourselves to look for them, we find meaning, growth, and even joy in unexpected places.

Next time you face a challenge, take a deep breath, and say, “Good.” Use that moment to learn, prepare, or pivot. Remember, there’s always something better waiting for you if you keep your eyes and mind open.

As Jocko Willink reminds us, the key to success isn’t avoiding adversity—it’s owning it, embracing it, and turning it into something powerful. So, no matter what life throws your way, find the good, and keep moving forward.

Because there’s always something good, even in the hardest of times.