“Our culture has become hooked on the quick-fix, the life hack, efficiency. Everyone is on the hunt for that simple action algorithm that nets maximum profit with the least amount of effort. There’s no denying this attitude may get you some of the trappings of success, if you’re lucky, but it will not lead to a calloused mind or self-mastery. If you want to master the mind and remove your governor, you’ll have to become addicted to hard work. Because passion and obsession, even talent, are only useful tools if you have the work ethic to back them up.” – 4.25/5 stars!

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.

I absolutely loved this book! I first became curious about it because a close friend read it about a year ago and told me the author reminded her of me — so, of course, I immediately added it to my TBR.
While I kind of see what she meant, the truth is, we’re nothing alike! David Goggins is a truly inspiring and one-of-a-kind person, relentlessly committed to self-improvement and pushing past his own limits. I can honestly say this is one of the most fascinating memoirs I’ve ever read.
The book begins with David talking about his childhood and the abuse he endured, which deeply affected him from an early age. And it didn’t stop there — even after running away with his mother, he faced more trauma that left lasting scars. He went through a lot! But one day, he made the decision to change — to be better, to do better — and he hasn’t looked back since. He went on to become a Navy SEAL, an ultramarathoner, and a powerful example of what it means to constantly challenge and outgrow yourself.
I really connected with his mindset – well, not as strongly as him. obviously. While I admire him for sharing his story so openly, I do think only a very small number of people will push themselves as far as he has. With that said, the concepts he shares are incredibly valuable. I especially liked the ideas of the “cookie jar” and the 40% rule. There are also some fantastic quotes throughout the book — something I really appreciated.
The writing is solid and easy to follow. I listened to the audiobook, which included a bonus mini-podcast after each chapter where David and his co-writer dive deeper into the content. That extra layer made the experience even more insightful, and I’m really glad I got that version!
I’d definitely recommend this to other non-fiction lovers who enjoy inspiring memoirs — this one is absolutely worth checking out!