Part 2 of my epic conversation with retired Navy SEAL and bestselling author of The Attributes, Rich Diviney! In this episode, we dive deep into human performance—everything from the elements that shape it to the process behind writing his book. Rich also shares exciting details about his upcoming second book, which we’re all eagerly anticipating. Along the way, we touch on identity and its evolution, and the complexities of parenting. And here’s a fun twist—I discovered that Rich and I share a love for the same legendary band! Any guesses on who it might be? Hint: This band’s music ties directly into the concept of "precision aggression"—the ability to be highly aggressive and laser-focused under extreme stress, just like in Navy SEAL missions.

Do you have what it takes to succeed in any situation? According to Rich Diviney, a retired commander who ran training for Navy SEALs, optimal performance goes far beyond technical skill. It’s about understanding THE ATTRIBUTES.

“Diviney’s incredible book explains why some people thrive, even when the going gets tough.” — Charles Duhigg, New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Habit

Over his twenty years as a Navy officer and SEAL, Rich was deeply involved in the SEAL selection process, which narrowed down hundreds of exceptional candidates to a few elite performers. He was often surprised by who made it and who didn’t. Some candidates had all the right skills but still failed, while others, who might’ve seemed less promising, turned out to be top performers. He realized that the objective criteria they relied on weren’t telling him the whole story. What he really needed to know was: Who would succeed in one of the world’s most challenging military environments?

And let’s be honest—it’s hard to predict success in the real world, too.

There are plenty of stories where underdog students achieve remarkable success while skilled, motivated professionals fail to meet expectations. Startups surge ahead while well-funded companies crumble. Teams packed with talent can falter, while unexpected individuals rise to the top. Over decades of selecting top-tier special operators, Diviney discovered that hidden beneath outward skills were crucial attributes—traits like adaptability, courage, cunning, even a bit of narcissism—that ultimately determine how resilient, aware, and conscientious someone is. These attributes play a massive role in both individual and team performance.

Rich’s methodology, honed in the high-stakes world of the military, can be applied in any context—personal or professional. Understanding these core attributes, both in yourself and others, can unlock peak performance at any time and in any situation.

In his book, Diviney breaks down these core attributes in fresh, practical ways, drawing from his experiences in the military, business, sports, relationships, and even parenting. By understanding the attributes that drive us, we can create optimal performance across every area of our lives.