After overcoming personal tragedy, Rutkoff urges Americans to invest in education, self-discipline, and family support as keys to rebuilding strength and purpose
HEMET, CA / ACCESS Newswire / November 6, 2025 / Navy veteran and former narcotics detective Jared Rutkoff is using his recent feature spotlight to raise awareness about the life-changing impact of resilience, family, and education. After serving his country and community for over a decade, Rutkoff hopes to inspire others to focus on self-improvement and persistence through adversity.
"I measure success by the effort I put into something," Rutkoff says. "If I tried my hardest, then I consider it a success."
Rutkoff's story - from his years in the Navy to his time as a decorated law enforcement officer - illustrates that determination and purpose can carry a person through life's most difficult moments. After losing his wife in 2018 and becoming a single father of two, he leaned on family, discipline, and hard work to rebuild stability for his children.
"I overcame it by relying on family and friends, and hard work," he explains. "You can't prepare for everything life throws at you. You just have to keep going."
Advocating for the Everyday Strength of Ordinary People
Rutkoff believes that anyone - regardless of background - can develop resilience through routine, education, and community. "I try to learn something new every day," he says. "It's about improving yourself a little at a time, so you can better take care of your family and your future."
Research supports his message. According to a 2024 Pew Research Center study, 68% of Americans say self-improvement and education are key to personal success, while one in three adults reports that community and family support were crucial in overcoming major challenges. The American Psychological Association also notes that resilience can be learned and strengthened through consistent practice - something Rutkoff says he lives by daily.
From Service to Advocacy
Having served as a Navy Gunner's Mate (E5) and later as a Narcotics Detective with the Beaumont Police Department, Rutkoff's professional life has centered around discipline, ethics, and service. He earned the Top Gun Award at the Palomar College Police Academy, the Officer of the Year Award at Beaumont PD, and the Retired Officers Association Leadership Award.
But his message today is about something broader - building inner strength, even when the mission changes.
"The Navy taught me to stay calm under pressure," he says. "Now, I use those same lessons to stay focused as a parent and as a person trying to keep growing."
He adds, "When others panic, I focus. When life gets messy, I prioritize and keep going. That's leadership at home, not just on the job."
Why His Message Matters Now
In a time of national burnout, career uncertainty, and rising stress levels, Rutkoff's perspective is both timely and personal.
The CDC reports that 77% of adults experience regular stress-related symptoms.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that nearly 1 in 5 adults struggles with mental health challenges yearly.
Yet, studies show that setting short-term goals and maintaining social support can increase resilience by over 60%.
Rutkoff's approach aligns perfectly with those findings. "I keep my eye on long-term goals, but I focus on what's most important right now," he says. "That's how I stay grounded - one step at a time."
A Call to Action: Build Your Own Resilience
Rutkoff isn't asking for donations or attention - he's asking people to take ownership of their growth. His advice is straightforward:
Set daily goals. Write them down and track your progress.
Keep learning. Take a class, read a book, or talk to someone with a different perspective.
Stay connected. Lean on friends and family when life gets hard.
Don't give up. "If you tried your hardest, it's a success," he says.
"We all have challenges," Rutkoff concludes. "But the way we respond - by learning, adapting, and staying focused - defines who we are."
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
Contact:
info@jaredrutkoff.com
SOURCE: Jared Rutkoff
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
