Can’t Hurt Me

The Dunwoody Police Department’s book club offers a refreshing twist on the conventional selections of a law enforcement reading group. Typically veering towards narratives that promise leisure over learning content, our circle rarely delves into the world of nonfiction, particularly those centered around leadership.

Yet, in an uncharacteristic shift guided by one of our insightful members, we embarked on the journey that is “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins.

Initially unfamiliar with the title, my expectations were modest. To my gratification and that of the group, the book far surpassed them—it was a riveting masterpiece. Unanimously acclaimed by our club, “Can’t Hurt Me” unfurls the remarkable saga of David Goggins. A child besieged by adversity and misfortune, Goggins seemed destined for a life of strife with little hope for a future. Defying these grim predictions, he not only reached adulthood but etched his name in the annals of the formidable, becoming the only individual to endure and conquer the grueling training programs of the Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and Air Force Tactical Air Controllers.

Goggins’ ascension continued as he carved a niche as a phenomenal endurance athlete, shattering records and earning the accolade of “The Fittest (Real) Man in America” from Outside magazine.

This narrative, however, transcends the personal triumphs of one man. It is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, speaking volumes to those in law enforcement. Officers are all too familiar with adversity in their personal lives and the professional gauntlet. The toils they endure can sometimes seem insurmountable, be it the psychological rigors or the job’s physical demands.

“Can’t Hurt Me” is a beacon of resilience, teaching us that the human will is unyielding. It’s about the silent strength required to stand tall after life has dealt its harshest blows. Goggins’ life lessons extend a universal message: there is immense power in not just enduring but in rising, time and again, fortified by each fall.

The rigor and relentlessness of law enforcement work require a reservoir of mental toughness and physical stamina, akin to what Goggins demonstrates. His journey mirrors the battles officers face: the constant negotiation between duty and danger, the physical toll, and the emotional fortitude to uphold justice. “Can’t Hurt Me” offers more than just a narrative; it serves as a mirror reflecting the strength each officer must find within themselves.

For law enforcement leaders, the book serves as a manual for cultivating a mindset of tenacity and resolve. It provides invaluable insights into harnessing one’s inner fortitude to lead with compassion, courage, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, regardless of the obstacles. Leaders and officers alike will find themselves equipped with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of what it means to serve, protect, and overcome.

The book is a masterclass in mental resilience, an area of training as critical to law enforcement as physical readiness. Goggins teaches us that our challenges, however formidable, are not endpoints but benchmarks in our journey of growth and self-discovery. His approach to overcoming obstacles serves as a blueprint for law enforcement professionals to cultivate the mental armor required to face the uncertainties of their duties.

“Can’t Hurt Me” is not merely a book—it’s a source of inspiration, offering tools and strategies that are applicable both in the line of duty and life. It underscores the essence of leadership: the ability to confront challenges head-on and emerge unscathed, improved, and inspired.

It does not end when the last page is turned. It acts as a continuous source of motivation, with each recounted challenge and triumph serving as a reminder of our capabilities to transcend and transform. It highlights the imperative of mental fitness, the value of introspection, and the unspoken camaraderie shared by those who face adversity with courage.

This book, in my view, is an essential read for every member of the law enforcement community. It will leave you transformed and prepared to face any challenge with a newfound resilience, embodying the very principles that define our noble profession.

I do want to add a word of caution. Goggins uses a lot of colorful language throughout the book so don’t be surprised at the frequent use of expletives.