Rating 4.3 - 4.8
90%+ rated 4 or 5 stars
Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins
Can't Hurt Me is the memoir and self-help book by David Goggins, a former Navy SEAL, ultra-endurance athlete, and motivational speaker. The book chronicles Goggins’ extraordinary life, detailing his traumatic childhood, struggles with self-doubt, and the relentless mental and physical challenges he overcame to achieve exceptional feats. Goggins shares how he turned his pain into power, transforming his mind and body to become one of the world’s most resilient individuals.
In addition to recounting his personal journey, Goggins provides a framework for readers to develop the mental toughness needed to push through adversity and achieve their own extraordinary goals. Can't Hurt Me is both a personal story and a guide to self-improvement, focusing on conquering the limits we place on ourselves. Goggins encourages readers to embrace discomfort, break through mental barriers, and take ownership of their own potential.
What reviewers loved
Inspiring and Motivational: One of the most praised aspects of the book is Goggins' ability to motivate readers. Many found the book to be incredibly inspiring, with his story of overcoming immense obstacles pushing them to break through their own limits and achieve their goals.No-Nonsense Approach: Readers appreciated Goggins’ direct, no-nonsense style. His blunt and honest tone was refreshing for those looking for an authentic account of personal struggle and success, without the usual fluff or motivational clichés.
Emphasis on Mental Toughness: The central theme of the book—developing mental toughness—resonated strongly with readers. Goggins’ focus on pushing beyond pain and discomfort to unlock one’s true potential was considered both practical and powerful by many, offering a valuable mindset shift.
Raw and Honest Storytelling: Reviewers praised Goggins for his raw and vulnerable storytelling. He didn’t shy away from detailing the darkest moments of his life, including abuse, self-hate, and failure. His willingness to be so open made his achievements feel even more impressive and relatable.
Personal Transformation: Many readers admired Goggins’ personal transformation from a traumatised child into an athlete and Navy SEAL. His journey served as a testament to the power of perseverance, self-discipline, and belief in one’s potential, leaving readers motivated to take ownership of their own lives.
Practical and Actionable Advice: Can't Hurt Me is not just a memoir—it offers practical advice for readers seeking to improve their lives. Goggins provides concrete strategies for cultivating discipline, overcoming excuses, and pushing through pain, which many found to be both useful and applicable to their personal and professional goals.
Challenging Comfort Zones: The book’s message of stepping outside one’s comfort zone was particularly well-received. Goggins challenges readers to embrace discomfort, which many found thought-provoking and empowering, encouraging them to tackle difficult tasks they had previously avoided.
Overemphasis on Intensity: Some readers found Goggins’ approach to self-discipline and personal growth overly intense or extreme. The book’s message, which often focuses on extreme physical and mental challenges, may be off-putting for those seeking more balanced or moderate advice. A few readers felt the book's approach could be alienating for those not interested in pushing themselves to the absolute limit.
Tone Can Feel Harsh: Goggins’ blunt and no-nonsense tone, while motivating for some, was seen as too harsh or aggressive by others. A few readers felt that the style of writing lacked empathy or emotional nuance, especially in areas where he discusses his traumatic past and struggles.
Over-Simplification of Trauma: A few readers felt that Goggins’ emphasis on mental toughness and the idea that anyone can overcome their trauma by “just pushing through” might oversimplify the complexities of healing. Some believed that the book could have benefited from acknowledging the more therapeutic aspects of recovery.