Can’t Hurt Me

Lesson 1. Introduction.

An abusive father, a traumatic childhood, toxic stress, fear, and obesity - these were just some of the things David Goggins had to deal with throughout his life. So, when and how did he end up being an acclaimed United States’ Navy Seal and a top-class athlete? His journey hasn’t been simple at all.

Goggins was born into poverty. He never had a normal childhood. He constantly struggled with his fear and other insecurities. But, none of that stopped him from becoming what he is today. An Army Ranger, Air Force Tactical Air Controller, and an ultra-runner, David has managed to set records in whatever he has dabbled in. 

He was also named ‘The Fittest Real Man in America’ by the Outside magazine. In the following lessons, we will see how David overcame all the difficulties and made it to the top.

Lesson 2. Traumatic Childhood.

David Goggins never had the opportunity to experience a playful childhood. Born in 1975, he wasn’t fortunate enough to have a secure and pleasant early life. Growing up, he had a violent and traumatic childhood, because of his abusive father. 

His father, Trunnis, liked to think of himself as a self-made businessman. He owned a roller-disco rink, where David, his mother, and his older brother used to work. The manner in which Trunnis treated his wife and kids was brutally sadistic.

From the age of six, David started working for his father at his disco rink. Not only David, but his mother, and brother were also taken to the rink every day. They were made to work tirelessly until the early hours. 

All that exhausting work left David with no time to sleep. Even in some cases, when he caught up with some time to sleep, he couldn’t. All the loud noises from the disco made it impossible for him to get a good night’s sleep. As a result, he ended up sleeping in between classes at school, failing to concentrate on his lessons.

Lesson 3. Escape from the violent Father.

David was witness to his father’s abusive behavior. Whenever Trunnis felt that his wife didn’t obey his orders, he used to beat her up with a belt. 

David would try to intervene, but would end up receiving the belt bruises as well. Trunnis’ sadistic and abusive nature made life a living hell for David and his family. 

To lead a normal and peaceful life, they had to escape from him. Luckily, when David was eight, they