It’s interesting how easy it is to come up with a list of excuses and reasons for NOT taking the plunge to do something new or challenging. But is that really what we want for ourselves? Being pushed to test our own limits, getting out of our comfort zone and learning to try new things really is the best part of life, right? So why do we always make excuses? Whether it’s a force of habit, fear, anxiety or just a general trepidation of the unknown – making excuses stops us from trying things that just may be the best thing yet. Here’s a look at how to stop making excuses and start living life to the fullest.
- You think you can’t afford to take that next step. Perhaps it’s a class, certification, a piece of equipment or a full enrollment back in school you need to get on the path to achieving your dreams, but you’re stopped in your tracks by needing the money to make it happen. Using money (or lack thereof) as an excuse is no more! It’s time to sit down, lay out a budget and get started figuring out how you can get this done. From scholarships to payment plans and even bartering or volunteer work – you can make this happen.
- You’re afraid because you just don’t know what you’re doing. You know what – this one is the worst excuse in the book. Everything requires a little bit of knowledge and obtaining knowledge comes from learning and practice. Don’t know what you’re doing? Learn! Between the endless resources on the web to opportunities to take classes, volunteer or even ask those around you – you can learn anything you set your mind to.
- The excuses stem from those around you. You feel you don’t have the support from your partner, family, friends – whoever is part of your immediate circle – and that makes things tough. While support really is one of the best ways to keep going with your dreams, not everyone is going to be there for you all of the time. You know what – these are your dreams after all! Believing in yourself, making time for yourself and setting your goals on a path to success is up to you – despite the involvement of your loved ones. Use that lack of support to fuel your drive and prove them wrong.
- Fear of not succeeding stops you before you even start. Convincing yourself that you will fail at something before you even get going really is the best way to not succeed – whereas convincing yourself you will succeed often equals achieving (and even surpassing) those goals. When in doubt, believe in yourself – when you want it badly enough, you will get there.
Have you been struggling with making excuses for why you haven’t followed your dreams? Do you often find yourself wishing you could take the next step to reach those lofty goals? What’s stopping you?
