Life presents countless challenges that test our endurance, grit, and resilience. For Sherman Perryman—author, coach, and founder of Militant Grind—overcoming personal adversity was the first step toward building a philosophy that now helps others find strength in their own struggles. His journey, shaped by an uncompromising father, resilience through financial instability, and a relentless drive for self-improvement, highlights the powerful impact of grit on personal transformation. In this post, we explore Perryman’s path to founding Militant Grind, his lessons on resilience, and how his framework can be applied by anyone seeking growth through hardship.
Finding Resilience in a Tough Childhood
Sherman Perryman’s upbringing in Los Angeles laid the foundation for his philosophy of resilience. Raised in a strict household by an ex-military father, he was familiar with discipline and hard work from a young age. His father’s demanding approach instilled a sense of duty, yet lacked empathy, making it challenging for Sherman to enjoy a traditional childhood. He recalls rising early to complete chores and household tasks, which often interfered with typical childhood activities.
Though he felt the lack of emotional support, Sherman eventually transformed this early discipline into a constructive force, one that propelled him toward his goals. His desire for control and agency over his life led him to explore music, reading, and other creative outlets to escape the pressures of home. As he grew older, this resilience would become the core of his philosophy.
High School and the Development of a Defensive Mindset
As he navigated high school, Sherman found himself in challenging social situations. Growing up in neighborhoods affected by gangs, he developed a defense mechanism to cope with both the external environment and his difficult home life. To counter the lack of support, he immersed himself in weightlifting, finding strength and confidence through physical activity. This choice laid the groundwork for his focus on mental and physical resilience, a theme that would later become central to Militant Grind.
In college, he continued his personal evolution, attending Morehouse College in Atlanta, where he was exposed to positive role models and a supportive community that expanded his perspective. Surrounded by other Black men focused on personal achievement, Sherman was inspired to embrace his potential and redefine what success could look like for him.
The Shift to Entrepreneurship: Creating Opportunities in Adversity
The economic downturn during the Great Recession impacted Sherman’s ability to find stable work, forcing him to explore entrepreneurship as a path to financial independence. Returning to Los Angeles, he identified unmet needs in his community and began launching small businesses—from promoting local events to offering tax preparation services. These ventures were not just about making a living; they were an expression of his determination to succeed on his own terms. His tax business, in particular, became a reliable source of income, providing him with the freedom to explore further opportunities.
Sherman’s entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the power of adaptability. Rather than succumbing to the limited opportunities around him, he built his own path. This creative resilience, which he now advocates through his brand, became the foundation of Militant Grind.
The Birth of Militant Grind: A Mindset of Relentless Self-Improvement
Militant Grind was born out of Sherman’s belief in the power of discipline and continuous improvement. While exploring his brand identity, Sherman wanted a name that captured his commitment to resilience and his drive for mental and physical excellence. Militant Grind became a platform that embodies these values, encouraging individuals to push through life’s difficulties with courage and perseverance.
As part of Militant Grind, Sherman authored Grit to Greatness, a book that outlines his philosophy on the five pillars of success: love, honor, strength, discipline, and wisdom. These pillars serve as guideposts for navigating life’s challenges and serve as the basis for his personal coaching and upcoming online programs. Through Militant Grind, he aims to provide others with the tools they need to embrace their struggles and emerge stronger.
The Spartan Race: Embracing Physical and Mental Challenge
One of Sherman’s most transformative experiences was completing the Big Bear Beast Spartan Race, a grueling challenge through high-altitude terrain that pushed him to his physical and mental limits. This race, known as one of the most challenging Spartan races, became a testament to Sherman’s commitment to embracing discomfort and growth. The experience solidified his belief that overcoming physical challenges enhances mental resilience, a core aspect of his coaching philosophy.
Sherman frequently references endurance athlete David Goggins, who similarly emphasizes the power of pushing past physical limits to unlock mental strength. Just as Goggins’ story motivates Sherman, Sherman’s journey inspires those around him to view discomfort not as a barrier, but as a catalyst for self-discovery and growth.
Building Mental Resilience and Self-Discipline
In addition to fitness, Sherman focuses on cultivating mental resilience and discipline. His book, Grit to Greatness, includes practical exercises to help readers develop self-love, honor, and the discipline needed to stay committed to their goals. Through his work, Sherman encourages others to redefine success—not as the absence of struggle, but as the ability to persevere through it.
This philosophy resonates with clients from all backgrounds, including corporate professionals and public officials. Sherman provides one-on-one coaching that combines physical fitness with mindset training, helping clients cultivate resilience, clarity, and purpose in their lives.
Key Takeaways
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Challenges Build Character: Sherman’s journey illustrates how adversity can foster resilience, shaping us into stronger individuals. He encourages others to view challenges as stepping stones to growth.
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Create Opportunities in Adversity: Sherman’s shift to entrepreneurship amid economic hardship underscores the power of adaptability. Even in difficult times, there are paths to create value and achieve financial independence.
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Discipline as a Foundation for Success: Militant Grind emphasizes discipline as essential to self-improvement. Sherman’s experiences, from his upbringing to completing the Spartan Race, highlight how consistent effort leads to greatness.
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Embrace Physical Challenges for Mental Strength: By embracing physical challenges, Sherman discovered the transformative power of mental resilience. His Spartan Race experience serves as a metaphor for life—pushing past discomfort can lead to personal breakthroughs.
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The Five Pillars of Success: Love, honor, strength, discipline, and wisdom are foundational to Sherman’s approach. These principles guide his clients and readers in achieving balanced, purpose-driven lives.
Sherman Perryman’s story is a testament to the power of grit and determination. His brand, Militant Grind, and his book Grit to Greatness serve as a roadmap for those seeking to harness their inner strength and overcome life’s obstacles. Whether through physical challenges, mental resilience, or self-discipline, Sherman’s message is clear: greatness is attainable for anyone willing to embrace the journey.
For more on Sherman’s work and to explore Militant Grind’s resources, visit MilitantGrind.com and check out his book, Grit to Greatness, available on Amazon.
