Excuses can come in a variety of shapes and styles. They can be an explanation as to why something went wrong, a justification as to why something didn’t happen, or a reason why we did or didn’t do something.
There are two types of excuses. Internal and External.
Internal Excuses – Are that inner dialogue we have. “i’m just not motivated enough” or “I don’t have enough knowledge to do this”. It’s where you rationalise with yourself as to whether you should or shouldn’t do something. A form of inner negotiation if you like.
External Excuses – These can be a little more complicated, as some may be within your control, others not. Excuses like, “i’m to busy to do it” which you have control over and the power to change. Or “My child got sick” which is outside of your control.
Generally the latter is much less likely to happen, and we tend to use the belief that external factors are the problem when if we are honest is not the case.
In short, excuses are nothing more than the reasons we tell ourselves as to why we can’t, don’t, won’t take the action needed in our lives to attract the outcome we really desire. Such as more freedom to do the things we want instead of working all the time.
Why we tell ourselves excuses
We tell ourselves excuses, because they make us feel better.
By justifying your actions (or lack of action) with an excuse you are able to fool yourself or others and dodge the blame.
It’s like a form of protection. When you are anxious or fearful or ashamed by the actions. Excuses numb the pain.
But they won’t actually help you out.
How they hold us back
Excuses are nothing more than an avoidance tactic. They are a way to divert attention from what needs to happen to justify you focusing on meaningless tasks that are within your comfort zone, but that won’t push you forward.
Effectively wasting time on things that don’t matter.
Whether its because you are scared or fearful of the action you need to take, or lacking knowledge on what to do. Making excuses, gives you an out. And the more excuses we tell ourselves, the more barriers we create. Holding us back from what it is we really want.
What you can do about it
In order to move past excuse making, you need to take responsibility for what it is you’re doing or not doing.
Because the only person capable of holding you back is yourself and the excuses you make.
To find out more about how you can remove the excuses that are holding you back. Check out the FREEDOM method
