Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
Audible Audiobook – Unabridged
David Goggins (Author, Narrator), Adam Skolnick (Narrator), Lioncrest Publishing (Publisher)
4.8 out of 5 stars
In the case of David Goggins, childhood was an absolute nightmare. Poverty discrimination, prejudice, and physical abuse shaped his day and haunted his evenings. Through self-control and mental toughness as well as determination, Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight man who had no hope to an US Armed Forces icon and one of the top endurance athletes. The only person ever to complete the most rigorous training in the ranks of an Navy SEAL Army Ranger and Air Force Tactical Air Controller and later break records in many endurance races, causing outside magazine to call the man The Fittest (Real) man in America.
In I'm Not Hurting You In Can't Hurt Me, he reveals his life's story in a way that shows that the majority of us are only able to tap into 40 percent of our abilities. Goggins refers to this as The 40% Rule, and his life story reveals a path that anyone can take to push beyond fear, overcome pain and unlock their maximum potential.
An updated edition of Can't Hurt Me with more than an hour of additional material with deeper insight and previously untold stories written by David. The book is not available in any other formats.
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2018
I’ll keep this short and simple... this book will not give you motivation... It will instead give you the tools to change your life once and for all. It’s so powerful I purchased the hard copy and the audiobook. Extra note: the audiobook comes with lots of great bonus material in every chapter.... it’s worth getting even if you have a hard copy. Buy it, read it, listen to it, share it... change your life.
1,349 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2018
I never write reviews. However, I cannot put down this damn book. I listened to all of Goggin's podcast on Rogan, etc. and was hesitant to buy this because I thought I already knew his story. There is so much more going on in this book. You need get it.
1,051 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2018
As David gets vulnerable and reveals his life story. I began to cry as he detailed his brutal childhood. It got me thinking I don't have any excuse to be mediocre... Soon after that David tells to story of getting to BUDS and has me laughing as he explains the physical brutality that he learned to laugh his way through. It got me thinking again, I don't have any excuse to be mediocre. All through this book, David's life experience revealed that everything is a mind game and the more I can find a reason for being, then motivation, willpower, opinions, and fear all become irrelevant. The audio book has commentary between chapters that brings these stories to life. David does an incredible job and this book has changed the trajectory of my life. The 10 challenges are underway and I am excited to see where they take me. You will cry, you will laugh, you will ask yourself "am I capable of more?" and if you are like me, you will say yes and get to work... FWIW, I highly recommend this book
932 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2018
This book is different than the generic self help books that we have all read. David didn't just regurgitate what everyone else said about self improvement. He invented his own methods through trial and error. He is also not afraid to tap into something that our society has just about eliminated, negative reinforcement. My self-improvement journey was always hindered by too much positive reinforcement throughout my life. There is a place for this, but sometimes you just have to look in the mirror and call yourself out with brutal honesty, David literally does this daily.
This book is as much an amazing story as it is a self-help book.
669 people found this helpful
The one book you need if you actually want to change your life
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2018
This book is more than just another self-help book. David Goggins is the real deal; a man who came from struggle and hardship, accomplished many impressive feats and became one of the toughest men alive. In this book he lays out his life story, with all the hardships he faced and how he came out stronger for it. With this book he doesn't just offer short term motivation but rather a deep shift in your mindset that will help you achieve your fullest potential, as long as you're willing to put in the work. After reading this book I finally understand what was wrong with my mentality and I can safely say that I now have a new attitude towards life and achieving my goals. Now I understand what it takes to live up to your full potential, which is something that 99% of people are never quite able to do. Here's a hint- it doesn't happen without suffering. This book is worth its weight in gold.
610 people found this helpful
...a must read book for someone who wants to realize their true potential and utilize it!!
Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2019
Had first saw the video of David Goggins in Dec 2017...started following him..found his interview in Impact Theory and that’s it.. he became my hero!! My life since then has transformed a lot and I know it’s just a beginning...
I have listened to almost all his interviews ..I know his story...I know his philosophy of life and success...and was thinking should I have to buy this book or not??
I bought the book and yes the book is much more than the interviews..it’s actually a tool... it is a must read book for someone who wants to realize their true potential and utilize it!!
Why quit, the sun is now starting to shine
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2018
I'm 80 years young, have made millions of dollars and have considered quitting and just coast. David has relit the fire in my belly. There are many things I have thought about doing during my lifetime that I never got done. There are still races to run and people to share my lifetime experiences with. "What if and why not?" It's time to get back in the race.
163 people found this helpful
Book and Audiobook are VERY Different
Reviewed in the United States on December 29, 2018
I read the book, thought it was amazing, then read a review here stating that the Audiobook had additional material. The Audiobook is like an extended interview/Podcast/director's cut with commentary of the actual book. It contains additional stories, mindset advice and background/explanations of things David didn't get too into depth in within the book. It's an excellent companion to the book if you read it, loved it and wanted more.
To those who complained about the language/misogynistic tones of the book, you probably have little to no experience with military personnel or their subculture. I am a woman who has served in the military for the last 10 years and I can assure you that the offensive passages quoted in other reviews are just a part of military vernacular and are phrases used by both men and women to talk s**t to each other, and are even used to motivate/push each other, especially in the context of PT. David makes his love and respect for the women in his life clear. Having listened to his interviews for years, David has always been authentic to himself and has always expressed himself as genuinely as possible, so the cursing was almost expected in this book. If cursing offends you then don't read this book, but it would be a shame to miss out on such valuable knowledge and the opportunity to see the world fully through a completely unique set of eyes.
122 people found this helpful
This Man is the Most influential Man, I wish to know!
Reviewed in the United States on February 5, 2019
The Book is absolutely Phenomenal and a Great read, creates and stirs courage in me where I never knew I had any, and has certainly enticed me to want better and to be better for my self and within myself when faced with looking back at the mediocre days when I just didn't have the spirit to do anything and without hesitation after reading this book, hell, going forward is a no brainer, and the drive I have developed caused me to realize, I was only being what I thought was good for me, except it was for everyone else and I never benefitted. Now I TAKE SOULS LIKE DAVID GOGGINS and with a smile, I say "F*&^% Motivation, I'm absolutely DRIVEN! This should be a movie! It is absolutely Awesome! ROGER THAT
One of the most inspiring books that you will EVER read.
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
I admit that I've read a lot of books on high-achievers, mostly written by special operators, psychologists, historians, etc. I have been following David Goggins for a couple of years, and I THOUGHT I understood his story in detail --- until I read his book. His ability to convey his story, analysis and message of the mindset of being driven has surpassed my expectations by far. Some may write him off as narrow-viewed with no filter or brake. This is far from the case.
David Goggins has just as cerebral insight as Dr. Carol Dweck, Malcolm Gladwell and other great writers. The difference lies in his EXPERIENCE of the mindset and not simply an academic view.
I would recommend this book to anyone who believes that the human mind and capability is far misunderstood, under appreciated and without having tapped its potential. Taurus Bailey, Attorney At Law,
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2018
The book is amazing by itself! The audible version is phenomenal with the addition of podcast-like commentary. I have both and I recommend both to anyone trying to be uncommon amongst uncommon people, to anyone trying to reach their full potential.
65 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2018
This book is just one man’s journey to discover how to master himself so he can attain his full potential, but it offers a clear life lesson for everyone: life is a never ending one-person race, where there are rest stops and food trucks and comfort everywhere but you can’t stop for respite or you will constantly wonder why so many people are hundreds of miles ahead of you.
This book doesn’t tell you anything you don’t already know: do the things you know you should be doing, in each and every moment, and the universe will unfold before you. But you don’t do it. You get drunk or have cake or both then get sad that you are prediabetic at 40. What to do?
Goggins has understanding, but not patience, for you. We all want to be more than the mindless animals from which we are descended. We all want to set our minds to a task and focus perfectly on attaining it. But we don’t. Why?
Because you don’t control your mind. Your cravings or you emotions run you and you are asleep at the wheel. Our Autopilot is always set to “comfort” not “fulfillment” and we need to learn to fight it if we ever hope to be more than stupid animals that always choose easy now and hard later over hard now and harder later. We don’t see that the whole of meaning in life is held within the struggle. Suffering in the pursuit of a worthy goal IS fulfillment. Progress IS happiness.
When you learn to love suffering and relish adversity, you stop hiding from the tragedy of life and face it. This very act of acceptance of suffering transforms it and you. It changes the story of your life from cringing victim to one of defiance and greatness.
It’s a story without a lot of glory and where the hero is very, very lonely, out there in the edges of what’s possible. But in that story lies the greatest promises of your potential and the lasting meaning you’ve been searching for in life.
53 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
This book is the kick in the teeth that our society needs. Yes, there is a lot of fowl language in this book, but it's raw and real. It's time to start holding yourself accountable for what goes on in your life and I suspect a lot of people won't like that. #canthurtme.
63 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2018
Amazing audiobook unlike any other I have heard. While it is an audiobook, it also offers elements of a podcast! Truly engaging and allowed me to look at my problems and challenges in life in a very different way.
111 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2018
If simple words deeply offend you, this book is not for you. (can only assume Holiday Starbucks cups are the next great affront to you). If you can’t see past the words and see the greater message, this book also isn’t for you. If you’re unwilling to challenge your perspective, deeply reflect, be real with yourself, take action and everyday be a better you than you were the day before, this book is not for you. But if you are willing to do all of those, read it. Whether it’s your favorite book or not, it’s still worth the time reading and learning about David Goggins’ experience, insights and perspective. (Disclaimer: probably one of my favorite books - just for his story alone - his story embodies the struggle in all of us, and what we all need to do to take it on and overcome self-imposed limits. No one said it will be easy.
47 people found this helpful
Review of Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins
Reviewed in the United States on March 4, 2019
This is a very inspiring and honest book that can be utilized to help you achieve the goals that you want and set for yourself in life regardless of age, sex, height, weight or any other limit or boundary. This is far more than a basic how to manual, but rather a transparent look into the life of someone who was given obstacle after obstacle and eventually learned how to set goals, become focused, overcome those goals and not let circumstances, feeling sorry for yourself or any other excuse that you may set for yourself. The author could have chosen to be just another guy or to fall into the category of being just another statistic. Instead, he chose to go from being a child who grew up in a hard dysfunctional family, losing 100 pounds in about 30 days, going through Hell Week three times to become the 36th African American to become a US Navy Seal, transforming his body again to go from a power lifter to an ultimate athlete and persevering through failures to become a Guinness Book of World Record holder for pull-ups in 24 hours. Goggins explains what worked for him and inspires and encourages us all to tap into what works for each of us. It takes being brutally honest with yourself, putting the excuses aside and moving forward with a purpose. Review by Q.E. Bullard
You haven’t even scraped the surface with his videos, this book is in depth.
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2018
Got it today, a few chapters in and I must say it’s an extraordinary book. Talk about a man that keeps it real.
This is a tool for people with thick skin and strong internal drive and lotus of control
Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2018
People have been writing self-help books for so long and in so many different ways that’s it hard to know what is going to actually help you. A lot of ideals shared in these books, while interesting make no lasting impact. I find most self-help books to be too intellectual, in that they don’t often appeal to the common man or the literarily disinclined. This is important because that means there are entire groups of individuals who will not be reached by these materials because they are not applicable to their lives. I also usually find self-help books to be soft in their approach for my needs. This is not the case with David Goggin’s Can’t Hurt Me. I learned about David through a friend and listened to him through podcasts first and became very interested in his story. I have followed many episodes he’s done since and followed him on social media for his “motivational” musings. The truth is, David Goggins is by no means motivational. David Goggins is deliberate and driven in everything he does no matter how insane it seems. Through his talks and contributions to this book it is clear he cannot be molded into anyone’s idea of a motivator or life coach. He is not overly optimistic; instead shrewd in his approach to life, speaking, and writing. Even with a ghost writer, David Goggins cannot be sensored enough to be appropriate for all audiences. For those that share David’s masochistic competitivism and no sugar-coating mindset, this book is an imperative addition to the self-help/memoir genre. I enjoy the audiobook for the podcast style conversation that you cannot get from this hardback but also I wanted to have a copy for my collection as well as be able to sit down and do the challenges that are included. If you’re serious about the information, both are necessary. Either way you enjoy it, if you can get over the harsh language (which for me added something because I was raised with this kind of language and mindset), you will find both a compelling biography of pure human will and strength, advice, and action items on how to be the best version of yourself you can be. This works for those who come from a similar upbringing and respond to this kind of leadership. As Goggins himself explains through his years of service, he is not an ideal leader for all personality types. He’s a hard “MF” and that comes with some hard “MF” language. This may not be the self-help book the snowflake generation deserves but its the one we need right now while hard-work, self-discipline, and delaying gratification seem all but forgotten.
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2018
Of all the motivational books I’ve read, this is the most uncommon and the absolute best read I could have imagined! Thank you David Goggins!
42 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2019
I’m a Navy recruiter, and love to read books by shipmates. I especially love books by SEALs. One of my personal missions every month is to get someone in the NSW program. It’s not something I HAVE to do - it’s something I want to do. So I read books like this. What I did not expect is for this book to completely uproot the way I think about myself, those around me, and my service in the Navy.
Chief Goggins does a spectacular job at inspiring, motivating, and challenging the reader to step beyond their perceived limitations. His story inspires us to not get down on ourselves because of our circumstances. It motivates us to take steps to correct wrongs and never give up. And it challenges us to run headlong into our limitations and break them.
I can not recommend this book enough. I will be telling my entire team of recruiters about it and will suggest it as necessary reading to all my Specop candidates. Thanks Chief, for a fantastic book!
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
This book is as real as it gets. If you read this book you'll never be the same! Read this book!!
29 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
Have watched a lot of his interviews on YouTube. Wondered if the book would add to those or not. It does add a lot. He is candid and raw and unflinching of his failures. He is sharing what he has learned without trying to be your guru. In my lifetime this is one of my top five life changing books. Salty language but felt like he was just being his real self.
17 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on November 24, 2019
I was introduced to David Goggins from the Joe Rogan Experience, and from listening to that podcast.. I felt like there's no man on Earth that's more harder than David Goggins. His story is simply incredible, but the way this man talks.. he can motivate anyone into doing anything. This man is a master at motivational speeches and messages, but the difference between Goggins and most other motivational speakers is that he has lived through hell and he has experienced all the hardships and struggles that makes his motivational message have real substance. He doesn't talk just to talk because the man has walked the walk. His message and lessons mainly comes from real life experience and that's why his messages and lessons are so resonating. This book is one of the most popular books on Amazon right now and rightfully so. The man has a real life zero to hero story.
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2018
I'll keep this simple since I am not a professional book reviewer. This book is like sitting down and talking with David Goggins. If it doesn't a plant the seed of change in you mind and water that b* tch with some truth, I dont know what to tell you. This is so genuine, inspirational, and life changing.
24 people found this helpful
Read This! An amazing story from an incredible guy who shows you how to start being your best self
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2019
Stay Hard! Merry Christmas! If you know anything about David Goggins, then you know what I’m talk about it. If not, then get ready to meet a man who could change your life.
Can’t Hurt Me (364 pages) is the (living) autobiography of David Goggins – and he is having quite a life. But recounting his life accomplishments is not the principle subject of this book. Instead, David focuses on what he had to endure to achieve. From the book’s cover:
For David Goggins, childhood was a nightmare - poverty, prejudice, and physical abuse colored his days and haunted his nights. But through self-discipline, mental toughness, and hard work, Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world's top endurance athletes. The only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller, he went on to set records in numerous endurance events, inspiring Outside magazine to name him The Fittest (Real) Man in America.
In Can't Hurt Me, he shares his astonishing life story and reveals that most of us tap into only 40% of our capabilities. Goggins calls this The 40% Rule, and his story illuminates a path that anyone can follow to push past pain, demolish fear, and reach their full potential.
Still not convinced you should this book? Go to YouTube and watch David Goggins.
He has appeared on several top rated YouTube channels and podcasts. If you like what you see, you will like this book. Can’t Hurt Me is a raw account of David’s life and the writing style is a seamless transition from the David you have seen in video.
David is living proof that accomplishing big (or really any) goals is possible through hard work. Based on his background and early life, David should have been a statistic in his words. He grew up with an abusive father in a broken home in a community full of prejudice and poverty. But, you can’t hurt David Goggins. What I like about this book is not only the story of triumph, but also the path forward outlined for the reader. At the end of each chapter are mini-challenges that you can implement today to begin changing your situation and chasing your goals the way David did.
For instance, the Accountability Mirror (#accountabilitymirror) is a tactic used by David to set and achieve goals. It’s simple: Write your goal on a Post-It note, then put it on your bathroom mirror. Sounds easy, right? Try it; it works, especially if you have others in the house that use this mirror...
Or, try the Cookie Jar (#cookiejar). The Cookie Jar is a physical reminder of how strong you are, especially when you feel weak or depressed. For me, I’m experimenting with an old cookie tin on my desk. As instructed, I'm filling the tin with slips of paper of major obstacles overcome in my life that can be later retrieved to serve as reminders of hardships already surmounted.
David demonstrates that the way to accomplish goals is mental toughness – something most of us lack. To develop mental toughness, you have to be willingly to work and suffer and, in David’s words, callous your mind. When you understand this idea, the exploits that have made David famous make more sense. Each one was a mini-crucible on his path to fortify his mind and become a better version of his self. And, again, David outlines to the reader how to start acquiring their own mental toughness.
In the end, what makes the book worth reading is David’s ability to tell his stories in a way that makes the reader think “if this guy can do it, maybe I can to it.” Then, he takes one more step forward than most to outline the initial path forward. I guess that should be expected from a man who has always take one more step forward than most.
Stay Hard! See you at the Finish Line,
10 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2018
Half way in already, awesome book.
22 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2018
I am a fantasy genre kind of girl, so this is not my usual read. However, I heard interviews with David Goggins before and was absolutely fascinated by his mindset, since I am a total marshmallow on the mental toughness scale. This book blew me away. The story is phenomenal and inspirational in its openness, courage, vulnerability, badassery, humility, and absolute stripping of any excuses a person could possibly come up with not to achieve whatever dream or goal he/she has. I'm about to go over all the challenges again in the book and dust off my dreams, and this time I will not stop at the first sign of discomfort or first failure in their execution.
I mean what excuse or self-doubting thought could I possibly have that could hold a candle to anything this man has powered through and triumphed over?! If your mental calluses are not strong enough yet and you are blanking out on the question of “Why you are doing this?”, ready to give up, just imagine telling your excuses to David Goggins. After reading this book, such a visual is so cringe worthy and downright physically painful, that even my totally lazy, marshmallow, pitiful inner self wants to shut up the self-doubting monologue and get back to work.
Thank you for blasting the impossible to smithereens.
Your life and mindset are phenomenally inspirational and empowering.
What amazing things am I actually capable of? I’m finally excited to find out.
Here is to 2019: the most uncomfortable and phenomenal year yet!
12 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 20, 2018
Make sure you get both versions of this book. The written version helps with the challenges, whereas the audio version has much more content than the written version and is much easier to digest.......... Since day one of reading this book I’ve been getting out and and getting after it more than ever. I’ve endured and accomplished more physically and mentally than I ever have in these past few weeks. Every day I’m breaking personal records at the gym and on the road. I never knew a human being could be capable of enduring the amount of physical, mental and emotional pain and gain as Goggins has as described in this book and still come out on top and completely undefeated. Its to the point where no matter what I do and how hard I work myself, it’s absolutely nothing compared to Goggins. The bar has been set sooo much higher for myself after this read. I have read many self help books, mental health books, diet books, and workout books over the past decade. This book is the best I’ve read and can fit into all those categories. Maybe not the diet so much but this book will teach you how to discipline yourself to achieve any goal you want. I think anyone in the world could read this book and gain something from it.
14 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
Awesome read, sad, real, life affirming and often funny. Thank you David! Reading your book is like putting glasses on for the first time. Everything comes into full view. Perspective changes immediately. I don’t understand the comments about cussing. I thought the language used was spot on and the pejoratives were used sparingly and cleverly to drive the ideas across. I already send this book to a friend as a gift.
20 people found this helpful
Perhaps the best book I've ever read
Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2019
Yes, David Goggins curses a lot! (IF you dismiss this book for that reason, you will have missed out on one of the most transformational books you'll ever read (If not THE most transformational) = Get over it!)
YES, Goggins uses some language deemed derogatory by many, like language equated to women, but not necessarily women = HUGE missed opportunity if you dismiss this book for that reason.
While no review can aptly review the brilliance of this book — “Can't Hurt Me," convincingly shows we it’s readers that EVERYTHING and ANYTHING IS possible, if we:
1. STOP looking for validation from others
2. Take 100% responsibility (No one, NOT ONE other talks about owning 100% responsibility like Goggins!)
3. Stalk difficulty — AND train your mind to:
* LOVE difficulty, it’s what makes us stronger
* REVEL in the gold difficulty offers
4. OWN that we live at 40% capacity, so we can take REAL action
Goggins doesn’t tell us ONCE what he thinks we should do — He SHOWS us, in the most compelling narrative I’ve ever read. I can’t sing the praises of “Can’t Hurt Me,” highly enough. It’s brilliant, with it’s authenticity and rawness. It’s deeply emotional, without emotion and poor-me mentality. It’s effective, in his selection of stories and ability to effectively build upon another. I’m in awe of what he’s created here. This book, “Can’t Hurt Me,” is not a spiritual text, but I say you’ll be hard pressed to not say you didn’t feel Spirit move through these pages, as you close the back cover!
PS — With the understanding that we can’t make everyone happy, NOR does he try, “Can’t Hurt Me,” currently holds a solid 5-star rating with near 1400 reviews! Seems Googins’ has hit our desire to FEEL what authenticity AND excellence FEEL like within ourselves!
My review emerges from reading one book per week.
10 people found this helpful
The first book I've ever struggled to stop reading and put down
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2018
David Goggins wisdom and lessons should honestly be incorporated into all modern curriculum, as his story of trials and tribulations reflect the underlying truth that we all have untapped potential inside each of us. There isn't enough I can say about this book to express the impact it has made on my life, and I guarantee that anybody who reads this book will resonate with something inside. This book illustrates the hard truths of life in which most of us try to avoid or deny in order to live comfortably, but David flips the script and truly shows the reality of what the road of most resistance can do for unlocking the potential inside us all. Fear and insecurity cloud our judgement, and David is the ultimate savant for expressing how pain and suffering in this world can fuel us to achieve new heights by battling through the mental prisons we can create for ourselves with limiting inner dialog.
16 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2019
If you’ve ever felt that you were dealt a poor hand, that things are stacked against you and you have all the reasons (excuses) you need to justify your position in life, I invite you to read Can’t Hurt Me.
David Goggins, author of Can’t Hurt Me, tells the remarkable story of his childhood full of abuse, dealing with blatant racism, being neglected by the educational system yet against all odds achieving remarkable success.
There are two major purposes of this book. One is simply to tell the remarkable story of how he overcame his tragic childhood and went on the have a stellar career in the military, primarily as a Navy Seal. His physical accomplishments border on the unbelievable.
The second purpose is help people move beyond motivational and inspirational thinking to harden them up mentally and physically so they can achieve their goals. To me this is a much more important part of the book. It is interwoven – an integral part of the book. This is not new, but is told in a practical, real-world perspective.
Mr. Goggins brings his story to life. You can feel the pain, experience the hardship. The language is “locker room” or “barrack” talk. If you are offended by rather blunt language, be warned.
Far too many people fold as soon as they run into obstacles. As Mr. Goggins points out, our biggest challenge is the stories we tell ourselves, the way we talk to ourselves. This book will show you how to overcome the urge to stay in your comfort
9 people found this helpful
This book is fuel, no matter what stage you're currently in.
Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2018
Fyi,
1) I read the hard copy followed w/ audible afterwards during workouts.
2) I am very career oriented and in the "uncommon" majority at an executive level in a retail organization. I am also young and not "hardened" mentally for some of the battles in the workplace. I thought I was, but not feeling it lately due to my own head ;).
From a fitness perspective, I started to hit it hard 1 yr ago because I was ~40lbs to heavy and not working on myself. In the past year, I've gone from 216 to 180. I am in a mental rut and searching for the extra push needed to get back grounded and better than ever.
Heading into this book I felt like I knew so much about Goggins after his Joe R. appearances. The first couple chapters held true but then headed into his military challenges which had me hooked. Reading each page was like "what could he do next? And how?". Read this in 4 days on a much needed mental vaca (usually read 1-2 books a quarter). My workouts were pumped and led to faster 5k miles each day ( not a distance runner, or even a 1mi runner, I usually do sprints. I ran 5k's each day this trip). His concepts had me going and digging deep. I wont be going into the social media aspects of his challenges but am setting up a whole new pain tolerance and mental resilience following this book.
It will get me to my original finishline and on to the next.
13 people found this helpful
Life changing stories embedded in obscenity
Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2019
This review is written by a 32 year old female. Last year my whole world fell apart, and to cope I channeled my rage and fear into training for races. Ended up finishing a Spartan trifecta and full marathon. When my 60 something dad congratulated me, he mentioned he has always wanted to run a marathon, and I replied that it's never too late to start.
Fast forward to this year, dad is raving about Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins and how inspired he was by his story. I had mentioned the Badwater marathon and that I hope to be able to run it someday. When dad said that Goggins finished Badwater and writes about it in his book, I knew I had to read it too.
As others have mentioned, the book is full of cursing, including using girl part words as derogatory insults. I understand that that's just how people talk in the military, and as a female I am not offended. Never heard my dad curse in his life, so if he can look past it then so can you, unless you're too obsessed with political correctness to gain from the message behind it.
After being obese for some time now, dad started running daily and is on his way to taking back his health and achieving his lifelong goal. He now runs 8 miles daily, I have never seen him so focused on anything before. He has the audiobook so I purchased him the hardcover for Christmas, since in the audio version Goggins mentions that there are pictures and other things in the book. That way he always has a physical copy to look at when he needs inspiration. Since I also enjoyed the audiobook, I will probably get a copy for myself too!
4 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2018
If this guy's story doesn't get your blood pumping, you might not have a heart. Goggins is the baddest dude on the planet. Hearing his whole story is inspiring. I'm very happy with the book. It's very well written and sounds exactly as I expected it. If you can't handle a few F-bombs, this book isn't for you. But as most of us know from hearing his interviews, this is how he talks. Get the F--- over it and enjoy.
11 people found this helpful
He is the messenger for our comfort-seeking age
Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2019
What can I add to all the five star reviews? Let me start with the caveats, the things that might be off-putting: the dude swears .... well, like a sailor. He speaks an utterly unfiltered, macho, bravado-rich language that never even bothers to sneer at being politically correct.
Get past those if you can. It is one of the most rewarding experiences you'll have.
When have you ever encountered chest-thumping bravado that comes not from deep insecurity but from pure humility? When have you ever encountered a rock hard spirit with deep tenderness for humanity?
On one level, this is a book about achievement; about overcoming obstacles and as a motivational book it is very good.
But it isn't just a good motivational book. It is an extraordinary book about being human.
Where it pushes beyond is his fundamental grasp (and unbelievable practice) of a radical idea: that to be happy and whole in life you have no choice but to live it without any armor. Put yourself out there 100%. Take every risk. Confront every fear. Own everything that you do. Armor your mind but expose your spirit and open your heart. Throw yourself 100% at life. You are going to stumble, trip, encounter setbacks, encounter resistance, and get hurt so don't be afraid of it. Don't let that define you. Know that you are bigger than your hurt. Indeed being hurt is what life is all about. Own your hurt and you will become invincible. Your body is weak. Your spirit is unbreakable.
It's like Jocko Willinck meets Viktor Frankl meets Brene Brown. In the form of a jacked, linebacker-looking, swearing, no-nonsense, trained killer.
Embrace the suck.
7 people found this helpful
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2018
Incredible. Simply Incredible. Never in my 40+ trips around the sun have I read a more meaningful account of one man's ability to change their life through sheer force of will. This man had so much stacked against him. Countless odds. And yet he hardened his mind and escaped becoming a statistic. Goggins is the guy who does the things he doesn't want to do as a way to harden his mind. An ultra endurance runner who does not enjoy running. His ability to transform his mind through effort is unlike anything I've read. It's truly inspiring to know there are people like Goggins out here. If he has something to say I want to hear it in its rawest form "F" bombs and all.
10 people found this helpful
Awesome! A Must Read eif you want to change your life.
Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2020
I found this book as a result of a Youtube video on David Goggins. My son shared it with me and I was intrigued....who was this guy and how and why does he do what he does? I found through some research and watching more online content and podcasts that it boiled down to Determination! that was it...be determined. The book lays it out as part of his life story that as a teenager he got a wakeup call...he was on a path to disaster due to circumstances. But...yes but...he became determined to change...inspite of everything against him....he realized it boiled down to a simple decision of being determined to change. Just the simplicity of it all appealed to me...Do the Hard Thing...everyday. I started the next morning...every day...5 AM...I got up...went running...well day 1 was more walking than running. I did this for 40 days straight...amazing...I took a 3 day break on and around Christmas day....I am back...6 days straight since...even today after a very late night New Years Eve....
Thank you David Goggins for presenting a very raw and frank portrayal of your life...it helped me....helping me....everyday...
3 people found this helpful
Comments about vulgar language
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2020
God, I love it, the people on here talking about how the vulgar language deterred them from the message of the book are the exact people who the book was meant for. Those so soft that little words from someone who has rebuilt a broken spirit actually keeps them from accepting the life changing message that it has to offer.
People want feel good books like The Secret that tell them if they sit on a couch and dream up a new life, it will eventually come to them, what twaddle! After a life of torment and abuse, this man drug himself though hell to come on the other side with a message about living true to yourself and evaluating your own weaknesses, and it's too over the top because of the language?
One trash reviewer said that he wanted his sons to read it but didn't have them because of the cursing. Good sir, I assure you, please don't worry, your boys are cursing up a storm on their video game the moment you leave the house. Oh well, this is the type of weakness you should expect from the majority of these wastes of oxygen whom have never done anything note worthy but read about the accomplishments of other greats. How typical...
This book is a game changer. Read it, take it in, and if you've ever been in a place of contemplating ending everything, please read about a man who had every reason to do so, but choose a different path.
Stay Hard
4 people found this helpful
Excellent Example of Fortitude!!
Reviewed in the United States on May 21, 2020
An excellent story about an amazing individual! I will not waste time summarizing this book - READ IT!! David's life story is very impressive!! A book to keep! The important thing is ... WHAT will reading this book do for you?
David's story teaches a very strong lesson in fortitude that is applicable to ALL AGES (little kids to the elderly). He's the "real deal" in demonstrating that the power of the mind can only be accessed and utilized when it has experienced hardship and suffering. That means that we consistently miss out on becoming our best selves when we stay in "the comfort zone" all our lives and avoid difficult tasks. Thus, it makes complete sense to understand that taking the "difficult and hard path" (when we are at a crossroad where it would be easy to stay comfortable and avoid pain) lends access toward achieving things you never thought possible because you are afraid or too lazy. He shows you that taking the hard path forces you to get at the core of who you are. Facing challenges (however small they may be) creates mental callouses so that those "difficult things" become easier as you perfect the person that is YOU.
Repeatedly taking the more difficult path creates a feedback loop that allows you to excel and achieve more and more as you discover and unveil the "best self" that you can be. David demonstrates this superbly by his life's work and the incredible challenges he faced. He purposely seeks the harder path, and he does all this without an ego to pave the way. He is out to impress no one but himself!! He is true to himself before anything else, and his excellence in character shines.
This book is trying to say that we ALL have that power, and reading it will undoubtedly cause you to stop and think about yourself and your life and how you can start now to become the best "YOU" that you can be. It's great that after each chapter, David gives you clear guidelines toward achieving your excellence that he used on himself as he went through his transformation.
Oh, as for the "cussing" that some reviewers commented they didn't like in the book. These people are MISSING THE POINT!! David's cussing isn't excessive, and it's in total character with his life story and his EXTREME experiences. Language is a way to express our emotions. Cuss words exist as a way to express extreme feeling or emotion while it also increases tolerance to pain. Such words elicit attention and reaction from the listener toward the speaker's feelings about something. So do not ignore this great story about David and the lessons learned just because he uses cuss words - it will be your loss if you do.
2 people found this helpful