3 Things I still miss after 20 years of leaving Special Operations Forces.
Two decades since ´hanging up my green beret´.
Different life for sure. Different challenges. Different mission.
But some things stick with you…..even after 20 years.
Here are three I still miss – and use every day:
– The Brotherhood
Nothing compares to the bond forged in shared hardship and struggle.
6 AM runs in the freezing rain.
Long missions running on willpower.
Having each other’s backs, no questions asked.
Today, I create this same spirit of trust and accountability with my coaching clients.
Different context, same principle: We go further together.
You decide where we go. I´ve got your back.
– Crystal Clear Priorities
In SF, the mission was always clear:
• Complete the objective
• Keep your team alive
• Come back home
No distractions. No “maybe later.”
Just laser focus on what truly matters.
This clarity now helps me guide high achievers to redefine their priorities:
What’s your real mission? What do you want to achieve?
Is grinding 80-hour weeks really getting you there?
Are you sacrificing what matters most?
– The Daily Test
Every day in SF tested you.
Physically. Mentally. As a team member.
You knew exactly where you stood.
No hiding. No excuses.
Just honest feedback and constant growth.
This is what I bring to coaching now:
• Honest conversations
• Real accountability
• Continuous improvement
My mission changed:
Success looks different in every season of life.
Twenty years ago, it was about being the fastest, strongest, most tactical operator and officer I could be.
Today, it’s about helping others find their mission:
• More time with family
• Better health
• Living life on their terms
• Creating memories that matter
Different battlefield.
Same principles.
What does success look like in your current season?
About the picture: Brotherhood ✅ Clarity and Purpose ✅ Constant growth ✅
PS: Enjoy this? Follow Robin Coenen for more.
Ready to build your own Epic Life?
Join my community of subscribers to the Epic Life Newsletter here> https://robin-coenen-newsletter.kit.com/53c375a1b4