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“As Nick’s former Platoon Chief and Senior Enlisted Advisor (SEA), it is extremely gratifying to witness his success in this stage of his life as both a father, scholar, and “mentor.” The professionalism and sincerity exhibited by Nick in his daily quest for the betterment of others is a testament to his warrior ethos and personal maturation from the dynamic experiences of his NSW past. I am blessed to have shared in Nick’s journey.”

—James S. Boa II, SOCS (SEAL) US Navy ret.

“I had the pleasure of serving with Nick during our time in SEAL training. He was and is a great man of integrity, a dedicated father and husband, and a stellar teammate. His wisdom has increased so much over our decade plus friendship, and I must say it’s been a tremendous blessing to watch him grow as a leader. His ability to flawlessly pass on leadership skills acquired during his time in the SEAL Teams to corporations and professional athletes is second to none. If you want to learn how to not only be elite, but also be an elite leader, I highly recommend Elite.”

—Remi Adeleke, Former Navy SEAL, author, actor and speaker

“In Nick Hays’ book, Elite: High-Performance Lessons and Habits from a Former Navy SEAL, he does a masterful job of boiling down the long-standing, well-proven secrets to success into simple, actionable steps - a masterful job of reminding us all that it’s the small things that make the difference between success and failure, and that we should never, ever give up.”

—Brian P. Ward, Global Chief Executive Officer,
Trimont Real Estate Advisors

“Nick’s passion for helping others succeed is only matched by his drive to share his knowledge and passion with others. Elite is a rare glimpse into the motivation and habits Nick has used to achieve, despite everything that’s stood in his path. If you’re ready to learn how to take your life to the next level, Elite is the book for you!”

—Bryan Black, Founder, ITS Tactical

“Against all odds, a guy who turned to humor to battle his way through some of the most challenging situations on earth. Someone everyone needs in their corner, not only in life but any professional setup that needs that extra magic. Nick Hays has the magic and it’s apparent in Elite. “Taking command of my life” in chapter 13 provides invaluable tools and made me reflect upon past adversity within my own life. I believe, and it is apparent here, that linking this to a positive outlook is what we all should strive for. Remember to take the high road, it’s the road of the Elite.”

—Lysle Turner, Mount Everest Summiteer,
Harvard Alumnus, Founder of Turnvest Holdings and
the Turner Together Foundation

“This is a book for anyone. Anyone who wants to get better at anything. Whether it’s personal improvement in some area of your life, improvement in your relationships, improvement in your communication with others, or improving your team, this material will help. And it applies to any environment or situation, too. Nick’s training is ultra-discipline, which is crucial when others’ lives are on the line. It is a mindset, a way of conducting one’s life, and he shares this with us through simple language and example. Trust the content, buy the book and study it; don’t just read it. If you choose not to, be content with never realizing your own full potential in life.”

—Tim Anderson, Managing Director Halbert
Hargrove Global Advisors, LLC, Long Beach, CA

“Nick Hays does an extraordinary job laying out the recipe to be ELITE. Up your level of self-awareness by learning how to filter your thoughts to win the war in your mind. Be prepared to laugh along the way with Nick and some of his amazing life stories.”

—Chase R. Wise, President, Saginaw Pipe Company

“I’m proud to know Nick and call him a brother and a friend. Nick does a great job in this book to combine his successes, failures and plenty of lessons learned from some of the most difficult and prestigious proving grounds on the planet.”

—Elijah Crane, Founder and CEO,
Bottle Breacher, Navy SEAL,
entrepreneur.comcontributor, Member of the Advisory
Committee on Veterans Business Affairs

Elite is a captivating book that you will find very difficult to put down, once you pick it up. Hays’ writing comes across as authentic, inspiring and motivating simultaneously. The invaluable secret that is shared with the reader is simple and profound at the same time: discipline and perseverance are the key to excellence and becoming what Hays was trained to be throughout his life’Elite.”

—Tomer Zvulun, General and Artistic Director,
The Atlanta Opera

Elite


High-Performance Lessons and Habits from a Former Navy SEAL


Nick Hays











Wiley Logo

To my parents, Kirk and Suzy Hays.
Thanks for all the hard work. I love you very much.