Lessons from the Submarine Force: Applying Rickover’s Principles to Business and Real Estate

My time in the Submarine Force taught me invaluable lessons that I’ve carried into my career in real estate and business. Admiral Hyman G. Rickover, the father of the nuclear Navy, instilled a set of principles that demand excellence, accountability, and diligence—qualities that are just as critical in business as they are in running a nuclear submarine. These principles are drilled into every submariner long before they set foot on their first boat.  Here’s how these principles apply to success in real estate and beyond.

Ownership

Rickover emphasized that a person must feel a sense of ownership over their job, knowing that their commitment impacts those around them. In real estate, this means treating every transaction, every client, and every property as if it were your own. When you take true ownership of your business, clients notice, trust builds, and success follows.

Responsibility

In submarines, shared responsibility means no responsibility. The same holds true in business. A Realtor who fails to take full responsibility for a client’s needs will quickly lose credibility. Whether it’s ensuring smooth PCS moves for military families or managing properties effectively, success requires personal accountability at every step.

Attention to Detail

Rickover insisted that leaders must stay focused on details. In real estate, missing even the smallest detail in a contract, inspection report, or market trend can cost a client thousands of dollars. The best agents meticulously review every document, conduct thorough property evaluations, and maintain organized, precise records.

Priorities

Too many professionals let their jobs dictate their priorities rather than setting them proactively. In real estate, it’s easy to get lost in daily chaos—showings, emails, paperwork—but strategic prioritization ensures you focus on what moves the needle: serving clients, growing your network, and closing deals efficiently.

Know What is Going On

Submarine officers must always know exactly what’s happening onboard. In real estate, staying informed about market trends, interest rates, and local regulations is just as critical. Successful agents establish systems—market reports, direct client feedback, and data analysis—to stay ahead of changes and make informed decisions.

Hard Work

There is no substitute for hard work. Rickover believed that dedication and extra effort compensate for many shortcomings. In real estate, competition is fierce, and only those who put in the long hours—networking, prospecting, and refining their craft—rise to the top. Your work ethic sets the standard for those around you.

Checking Up

Even the best make mistakes. That’s why independent verification is crucial. Whether it’s double-checking contracts, confirming property conditions, or reviewing financials, a second set of eyes can prevent costly errors. In business, surrounding yourself with trusted advisors and professionals is essential.

Facing the Facts

Hoping things will work out despite evidence to the contrary is a dangerous mindset. Whether it’s an overpriced listing, a declining market, or an underperforming strategy, the best businesspeople face reality head-on and adapt. Being willing to acknowledge mistakes and pivot when necessary is a hallmark of long-term success.

Conclusion

Rickover’s principles aren’t just for submariners—they apply to anyone striving for excellence. By taking ownership, embracing responsibility, prioritizing details, and committing to hard work, success in real estate—and any business—becomes not just possible but inevitable. Just as in the submarine force, discipline and dedication separate the best from the rest.