Daniel Harshman‘s life story is a testament to the power of resilience. Born and raised in Hagerstown, Maryland, he began wrestling at the tender age of five, an experience that instilled in him the values of discipline, perseverance, and resilience from a very young age. These early lessons on the wrestling mat became the foundation for his success, both in academia and his subsequent career.
After high school, Daniel pursued higher education at Ashworth College, where he excelled, earning a Bachelor of Science in Management and an Associate of Science in Marketing, alongside certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. His academic achievements prepared him for the challenging roles he would take on in the military and as a personal fitness trainer.
Currently serving as an Equipment Specialist at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center in Massachusetts, Daniel plays a crucial role in advancing military technology to enhance soldier safety and performance. His work demands a high degree of resilience as he leads field evaluations of cutting-edge military technologies, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards required for field deployment.
Beyond his professional duties, Daniel extends his resilience to mentoring young athletes in wrestling, imparting lessons of mental toughness and character that are essential both on and off the mat. His personal philosophy is deeply rooted in the resilience he developed as a young athlete, which he now channels into every aspect of his life, teaching others to face life’s challenges with strength and courage.
What was your life like before you addressed resilience as an issue in your life?
Before I embraced resilience as a guiding principle, my life felt chaotic and overwhelming. I was often stressed, particularly during my transition from active military duty to my role as an Equipment Specialist. The demands of evaluating cutting-edge military technologies were intense, and I frequently doubted my ability to keep up. I felt like I was constantly reacting to problems instead of proactively addressing them. This period was marked by a lack of direction and frequent feelings of inadequacy.
What emotions were you feeling before you dealt with the issue?
I felt a mix of anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. The pressure to perform well in my new role was immense, and I often questioned whether I was capable of meeting the high standards required. There was also a lingering sense of fear that any mistake could have serious consequences for soldier safety and performance. This emotional turmoil was draining and left me feeling defeated at times.
How was this issue affecting your life?
This issue was holding me back in several ways. Professionally, it hindered my ability to lead effectively and make confident decisions. I was hesitant to take on new projects or suggest innovative ideas, fearing failure. Personally, the stress spilled over into my home life, affecting my relationships and overall well-being. I found it difficult to relax and enjoy time with my family, as the weight of my professional anxieties was always on my mind.
What specific strategies or practices did you implement to address the issue?
To address this issue, I implemented several key strategies focused on building resilience. First, I adopted a disciplined daily routine that included physical fitness, which helped clear my mind and reduce stress. I also sought mentorship from experienced colleagues who provided guidance and support. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises, became part of my routine to manage anxiety. Finally, I set realistic goals and broke down large tasks into manageable steps, which helped me regain a sense of control and accomplishment.
Where did you first hear about this strategy or practice?
I first heard about these strategies through a combination of military training and personal development resources. The concept of resilience was emphasized during my time in the Army, and I expanded on this by reading books and articles on mental toughness and stress management. Colleagues and mentors also played a significant role in introducing me to effective practices.
Please give our readers a step-by-step guide, so they can implement the strategies you used.
- Set a consistent schedule that includes physical exercise to start your day with energy.
- Find mentors who can offer guidance, support, and perspective based on their experiences.
- Incorporate meditation and deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine to manage stress.
- Break down large tasks into smaller, achievable steps to maintain a sense of progress and control.
- Regularly assess your progress and make adjustments to your strategies as needed.
How long did it take before you saw or felt changes occurring?
I started noticing positive changes within a few weeks of implementing these strategies. Initially, the physical activity helped reduce my stress levels significantly. Over the next few months, as I continued to practice mindfulness and seek mentorship, I found myself becoming more confident and proactive in my professional role. The full transformation took about six months, during which I developed a stronger sense of resilience and capability.
What challenges did you face along the way of your personal transformation?
One of the main challenges was maintaining consistency in my new routines amidst a busy and demanding schedule. There were days when I felt too exhausted to exercise or too overwhelmed to practice mindfulness. Additionally, opening up to mentors and admitting my struggles required vulnerability, which was difficult at first. Balancing professional responsibilities with personal development efforts was also a continuous challenge.
How did you address those challenges?
To address these challenges, I reminded myself of the long-term benefits of resilience. I prioritized self-care and allowed myself to be imperfect, understanding that consistency doesn’t mean perfection. I made adjustments to my schedule to ensure that I could fit in my practices, even if it meant shorter sessions. Embracing vulnerability with mentors became easier as I experienced the positive impact of their support. Balancing responsibilities required ongoing reflection and adaptability, but I stayed committed to my goals.
What is life like for you now?
Life now feels much more balanced and manageable. Professionally, I am confident in my abilities and proactive in my approach to challenges. I take on new projects with enthusiasm and trust in my resilience to navigate any obstacles. Personally, I am more present and engaged with my family, enjoying our time together without the constant burden of stress. The strategies I implemented have become ingrained habits that continue to support my well-being.
From a broader perspective, what you have learned about yourself through this experience?
Through this experience, I’ve learned that resilience is not an innate trait but a skill that can be developed with dedication and practice. I discovered that I am capable of overcoming significant challenges and adapting to new situations. This journey has taught me the importance of self-care, support systems, and continuous learning. I also realized that being vulnerable and seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Overall, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of my own capabilities and the importance of resilience in achieving long-term success and happiness.
What advice would you give others facing this challenge?
I would advise anyone facing similar challenges to start by establishing a solid routine that includes physical activity and mindfulness. Seek out mentors or supportive colleagues who can provide guidance and perspective. Break down your goals into manageable steps and celebrate small victories along the way. Remember that resilience is a journey, not a destination, and it’s okay to have setbacks. Stay committed to your practices, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Most importantly, be kind to yourself and recognize that progress takes time.
What continues to give you strength?
What continues to give me strength is the knowledge that I have overcome significant challenges before and can do so again. My family’s support and the positive impact I see in my professional and personal life motivate me daily. The progress and growth of the young athletes I coach also inspire me to keep pushing forward. Knowing that my efforts make a difference, both in the military and in the community, fuels my commitment to resilience and continuous improvement.
If others reading this would like to connect with you to ask questions, are you open to that?
Yes, I am open to connecting with others who have questions or need support. Feel free to reach out to me through my Substack or social media platforms.