Steve Magness's Do Hard Things re-examines the conventional understanding of toughness, arguing against the harmful "toughen up" approach often seen in sports, parenting, and the workplace. The book advocates for a more nuanced definition of toughness, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and building inner resilience rather than simply enduring hardship. Magness uses various examples, including military training and athletic performance, to show how a holistic and supportive approach to developing mental fortitude is more effective than harsh, controlling methods. Ultimately, the book proposes a framework for cultivating genuine toughness based on self-compassion, autonomy, and a flexible mindset.