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Book Club: Can't Hurt Me

The Quarterback Book Club

March 31, 2025

Just some thoughts and ideas on some of my favorite books that can help shape the way we think about our role as a Quarterback. The more knowledge we can explore from various backgrounds the more holistically we can serve the team we lead. As always, hopefully there is a nugget here and there that resonate with where you are at, adding a tool of understanding to your tool belt. -Coach Nate Longshore

Here are 10 key themes from "Can’t Hurt Me" by David Goggins:

1. The Power of Mental Toughness

- Goggins emphasizes that mental toughness is the foundation for overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.

- He believes that pushing past physical and mental limits is essential for growth and success.

2. The 40% Rule

- Goggins argues that most people only tap into 40% of their potential, and the rest is unlocked through relentless effort.

- By pushing beyond perceived limits, individuals can achieve far more than they ever thought possible.

3. Embrace Suffering

- Goggins teaches that suffering is a necessary part of growth and should be embraced rather than avoided.

- He believes that enduring pain and discomfort builds resilience and character.

4. Accountability Mirror

- The accountability mirror is a tool Goggins uses to confront his own shortcomings and take responsibility for his life.

- By being brutally honest with himself, he identifies areas for improvement and commits to making changes.

5. The Importance of Self-Discipline

- Goggins stresses that self-discipline is crucial for achieving long-term goals and maintaining progress.

- He advocates for creating routines and habits that reinforce discipline and focus.

6. Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

- Goggins shares his journey of overcoming deep-seated fear and self-doubt through relentless effort and determination.

- He encourages others to face their fears head-on and use them as fuel for growth.

7. The Value of Hard Work

- Goggins believes that there are no shortcuts to success and that hard work is the only path to achieving greatness.

- He emphasizes the importance of consistent effort and perseverance, even when progress seems slow.

8. Building a Calloused Mind

- Goggins describes the process of building a "calloused mind" to withstand mental and emotional challenges.

- This involves exposing oneself to discomfort and adversity to develop resilience and mental strength.

9. The Role of Visualization

- Visualization is a key tool Goggins uses to prepare for challenges and stay focused on his goals.

- By imagining success and the steps needed to achieve it, he maintains motivation and clarity.

10. Living with Purpose

- Goggins emphasizes the importance of finding and pursuing a purpose that drives you to push beyond limits.

- He believes that living with purpose provides the motivation and direction needed to achieve extraordinary results.

These themes highlight Goggins’ philosophy of relentless effort, mental toughness, and self-discipline as the keys to overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.