Excuses

Introduction

At some stage, we have all resorted to making justifications. Fear and procrastination are frequently the primary instigators. How often have you found yourself uttering phrases like "I will commence tomorrow" or "I simply lack the time"? These rationalisations accumulate and hinder our pursuit of objectives. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that this self-deception serves no one but oneself. The moment has arrived to break this cycle and initiate progress.

Excuses and why we make them

In both professional and personal environments, excuses often serve as a protective mechanism that shields individuals from owning up to their responsibilities. By resorting to phrases like "I can't because..." individuals tend to deflect accountability and place the blame elsewhere. It is crucial to acknowledge that the chronic use of excuses does not contribute to personal or professional growth; instead, it acts as a hindrance that blocks the path to success. These excuses create mental barriers that hinder our progress and prevent us from taking decisive actions necessary for advancement. By recognising the detrimental impact of excuses on our development, we can strive to overcome these barriers and cultivate a mindset focused on accountability, growth, and proactive problem-solving.

What is procrastination?

Procrastination is a manifestation of self-sabotage, characterized by internal dialogue suggesting that the impending task is arduous or unpleasant. Frequently, procrastination stems from uncertainty on how to commence a task, yet it predominantly arises from the perceived enormity of the endeavour. Paradoxically, the tasks we procrastinate on are typically manageable if initiated promptly. However, postponing them invariably culminates in subsequent disappointment and frustration.

Fear is usually the cause of procrastination

Fear is often at the heart of procrastination. It can be paralysing, whether fear of failure, success, or the unknown. Here’s how fear can show up:

• Fear of failing at something new (like starting a blog or launching a business).

• Fear of success and the responsibilities that come with it.

• Fear that whatever choice you make could be wrong.

• Fear of judgment from others when you try something different.

Sound familiar? If so, you're not alone. We all experience these fears, but they don’t have to hold us back.

Break the chain and get started

To liberate oneself from the pattern of making excuses, it is advisable to commence by establishing precise and achievable objectives. The following steps outline how to do so effectively:

• Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps—daily, monthly, and yearly.

• Focus on the process rather than the result to keep your motivation steady.

• Swap negative self-talk for positive reinforcement. Instead of “I can’t do this,” say, “I’ve got this!”

  
  

Utilizing visualisation techniques can be beneficial in achieving goals. Envision yourself successfully reaching your objectives and consciously try to avoid distractions that may hinder your progress, such as aimless browsing on social media platforms.

Control what you can control

Individuals can govern their thoughts, expressions, and behaviours, while external control over the actions of others remains beyond reach. Although seemingly straightforward, adopting this mindset requires dedication. Releasing the compulsion to concern oneself with external opinions can lead to liberation and is fundamental to concentrating on significant matters.

Consider a professional scenario in which a colleague (Ethan) consistently postpones a project. While it may be tempting to feel frustration and anxiety, such reactions serve no purpose. Ethan's behaviour is beyond your influence, yet your response remains within your control. Rather than passively waiting, directing attention towards actions that propel progress exemplifies the empowerment of assuming responsibility for personal choices.

I decide to make something happen or not happen

While acknowledging the limitations of control, it is essential to recognize the power of influence in shaping one's life and its outcomes. Individuals can decide on actions that lead to specific results or their absence. Even when not as desired, every outcome stems from a deliberate choice. The world operates based on human decisions rather than random chance.

Personal accountability lies in one's actions and decisions, exclusive to the individual. External parties cannot dictate these choices unless they unknowingly influence them. Attributing outcomes to external factors may arise from a desire to shift responsibility. However, such tendencies hinder personal growth by evading accountability and shifting blame instead of self-reflection.

Conclusion

I believe that if you can break the chain, then you can get started. You need to set your goals, decide what they are, and then make them happen or not yourself.

Excuses are the most common reason why people don't take action. There are hundreds of different types of excuses, but they all fall into two categories:

Excuses that you don't have the resources to do something. For example, "I can't start an exercise program because I don't have time."

Excuses you're scared to do something and need someone else's help. For example, "I can't start an exercise program because I'm afraid I won't be able to stick with it."

It's easy to get caught up in excuses because something is always in the way of your goals. You may think you need more time, money, energy, or support from other people before you can take action and change your life. But what if you could break the chain of excuses? What if you could stop making excuses altogether?

For more information on our ebooks, visit here

Connect with us:

Twitter: iPlan_MyFuture 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iplan_myfuture/

TikTok: @iplan_myfuture 

Facebook: Visit Profile