Leader Quote by Jocko Willink
““If an individual on the team is not performing at the level required for the team to succeed, the leader must train and mentor that underperformer. But if the underperformer continually fails to meet standards, then a leader who exercises Extreme Ownership must be loyal to the team and the mission above any individual. If underperformers cannot improve, the leader must make the tough call to terminate them and hire others who can get the job done. It is all on the leader.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Extreme Ownership, 2015
Leaders must develop underperformers, but if they persistently fail, the leader must prioritize the team’s mission over the individual, even if that means termination.
In simple terms: Leaders balance development and mission.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize team success.
Themes
leadership
accountability
team dynamics
Mood
direct
pragmatic
Type
leadership
motivational
When to use this quote
- team building
- HR decisions
- coaching
- mission planning
- organizational health
Key Concepts
management
extreme ownership
performance
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it time to let go?
- How can you support improvement before termination?
A Different Perspective
Termination can harm morale.
