The Spirit of our Special Forces

What does it take to be the best? In The Spirit of our Special Forces, Eirik Kristoffersen gives us an insight into Norway’s foremost elite force.

In August 2020, General Eirik Kristoffersen became the new Chief of Defence in Norway. For most of his previous career he served in the Armed Forces’ Special Operations Command (FSK) – a legendary military unit with a famously tough selection process.

In order to become part of the FSK you need the right mindset, or ‘spirit’, but what does that really mean? What does FSK do in order to develop its soldiers, both individually and collectively? And how does it develop a culture characterised by trust and assurance – where one can adapt, handle conflict and have the courage to make mistakes?

The book is a compelling read based on a series of actual events. It includes dramatic episodes from war, describes the challenges faced during training and in adapting, as well as examples of the personal quality which Kristoffersen appreciates most of all in his staff: the courage to protest and to say no.

The Spirit of our Special Forces is a book about leadership, motivation and culture, but first and foremost it is about the determination to continuously improve.

Praise:

“A splendid book! No matter who you are or where you are in life, let yourself be inspired by Eirik Kristoffersen.”Erik Bertrand Larssen, Mental coach

“There is something honourable about this book (...) He describes classic virtues such as courage, willpower and team spirit without once linking them to the male gender or masculinity.”Aftenposten

“It is as exciting as it is interesting and informative. It ought to be part of the leadership curriculum in all officer training. (…) This is the book which MUST be read by everyone with an interest in the armed forces and in leadership in peacetime, crisis and war.” Offisersbladet

“With Eirik J. Kristoffersen’s book we are breaking new ground (…) An excellent insight into the everyday life of one of the best units in the country”Forsvarets Forum