David Goggins (born February 17, 1975, in Buffalo, New York) is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL, ultramarathon runner, triathlete, motivational speaker, and author of the bestselling memoir Can’t Hurt Me. Rising from a childhood marked by abuse, racism, and learning disabilities, Goggins transformed himself through grueling self-discipline and an unyielding work ethic. As one of the world’s top endurance athletes, he has completed over 60 ultramarathons, triathlons, and ultra-triathlons, often placing at the top despite severe physical pain.

Goggins coined the term “calloused mind” to describe the mental toughness forged by stepping into discomfort daily. His philosophy—“embrace the suck”—urges you to seek challenges, shatter self-imposed limits, and redefine what’s possible.

Top 10 David Goggins Quotes to Forge an Unbreakable Mind

1. “You are in danger of living a life so comfortable and soft, that you will die without ever realizing your true potential.”
2. “Embrace the suck.”
3. “Get comfortable being uncomfortable.”
4. “Most people who are criticizing and judging haven’t even tried what you failed at.”
5. “Be more than motivated, be more than driven, become literally obsessed to the point where people think you’re fucking nuts.”
6. “The only way I became the person I am today is by realizing I was the only one who could limit me.”
7. “Callus your mind. It’s like working out; the more you do it, the tougher it gets.”
8. “If you want to get better, do the things that no-one else wants to do. Do the things that no-one is even thinking about doing.”
9. “Tell yourself the truth! That you’ve wasted enough time, and that you have other dreams that will take courage to realize.”
10. “Suffering is a test. That’s all it is. Suffering is the true test of life.”