The best advice for basic training you NEED to know

Published on June 15, 2025
Duration: 0:23

This video features Nikko Ortiz, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, providing direct and motivational advice for basic training. He emphasizes the importance of initiative and proactive engagement, advising recruits to 'always go first' and to strive for excellence to outperform peers. The content is delivered with high authority, drawing on his military experience.

Quick Summary

U.S. Coast Guard veteran Nikko Ortiz advises basic training recruits to "always go first" and avoid being a "wallflower." He emphasizes proactive engagement, suggesting recruits "strike hard, strike fast" to outperform peers and establish a strong presence from the outset. This direct approach is key to success in demanding training environments.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Initial Arrival & Drill Instructor
  2. 00:08Nikko Ortiz's Boot Camp Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the key piece of advice Nikko Ortiz gives for basic training?

Nikko Ortiz's primary advice for boot camp is to "always go first." This means taking initiative, being proactive, and not hesitating to engage or perform tasks before others, setting a strong precedent from the start.

Why is it important to outperform others in basic training, according to Nikko Ortiz?

According to Nikko Ortiz, striving to outperform others in basic training is crucial for establishing dominance and demonstrating capability. His philosophy is to 'strike hard, strike fast,' encouraging recruits to be aggressive in their performance to gain an advantage.

What does Nikko Ortiz mean by 'don't be a wallflower' in training?

'Don't be a wallflower' means actively participating and engaging rather than passively observing. Nikko Ortiz advises recruits to be visible, assertive, and to make their presence and effort known, as passivity can be detrimental in a demanding training environment.

What role does initiative play in basic training according to the video?

Initiative is presented as a critical factor for success in basic training. Nikko Ortiz stresses that taking the lead, volunteering for tasks, and demonstrating proactivity are key strategies to gain respect and excel among peers.

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