Surrounded by endless cruise ship amenities, I was reading David Goggins’ “Can’t Hurt Me.” The irony was palpable as I read about Goggins’ relentless self-discipline amidst the all-you-can-eat buffets.

Goggins is a polarizing yet inspiring figure, known for his extreme mental fortitude. His book blends raw autobiography with actionable self-improvement, recounting his trials and tribulations. His story of losing 100 pounds in 3 months resonated with my own weight loss journey of 160 pounds over a year or two.

Though I’m not usually drawn to biographies, Goggins weaves his life narrative into something fascinating and deeply personal. He challenges readers to confront their barriers, turning his story into a gauntlet.

Goggins’ long-form podcast appearances give a taste of his intense, unfiltered insights, but the book provides the rawest version of his story, filled with gritty details. It’s a testament to transformation through sheer will, challenging anyone to shatter their self-imposed limitations.

The book reminded me that comfort is the enemy of growth. I felt like I wanted to put the book down and go for a run - and I did just that, making several visits to the ship’s gym.