By a Bonnie
As much as we all hate to admit it, we all make excuses for ourselves every now and again. We make excuses when we do not feel like doing something, when we feel like we cannot step out of our comfort zone or when trying something new is just not what we are not ready for. Excuses are the easy way out, but we must stop this tendency to make them just because it is effortless.
Similar to lies, excuses can start off small, but as time goes on, you realize you have a string of warrants that you need to keep track of. Although they may seem harmless, these excuses are only pulling you further away from expanding your comfort zone and reaching your fullest potential.
But, luckily, if you are ready to break this bad habit of making excuses, I have you covered.
One of the most prominent reasons why people make excuses is because of fear.
Whether or not we are conscious about it, we tend to make excuses when we want to get out of something that we deem uncomfortable. However, if we never leave our comfort zone and become content with stepping out of our safe space, we will be making excuses for everything that we deem an inconvenience.
The best way to get over your fear of being uncomfortable and making excuses is to show up. Half of the battle is getting comfortable with the idea of being uncomfortable. All you have to do is simply start.
Of course it is always uncomfortable starting something for the first time, but position yourself to be ready to conquer what is coming instead of hiding behind a shell and creating reasons why you can’t.
Excuses can also stem from self-doubt.
We often make excuses when we compare ourselves to the people around us, hence when we doubt our capabilities.
The comparison game is as old as time. It seems that it is in our genetics to compare ourselves to the next best thing, whether that be how someone presents themselves, their talents or achievements.
As one example, we may not hang out with a group of close friends because we know someone might be there that may be “more attractive” or “more outgoing.”
Do not make excuses about not going!
Take this as a learning opportunity. It is okay to compare yourself to people sometimes. I am not saying that comparing yourself to others all the time is healthy, but if who they are is something you strive for, make the effort to go to enjoy yourself and understand the person you want to be.
Another reason why excuses can rule over our lives can be due to overthinking.
Overthinking can blow scenarios out of proportion which leads us to believe that we need to make excuses when an excuse does not need to be made.
Stop overthinking and look at the bigger picture. Will these issues affect us in the future? Do you really have to make the excuse to get out of a situation because that makes life easier?
Do not let minor concerns turn into major obstacles or let it continue to kick in your overthinking.
Overall, it can be inevitable that us as humanity make excuses, but do not let the choice of excuses overrun your life. Use excuses sparingly and when you start getting out of your comfort zone, you will begin to thank me.
bonavent@sbu.edu
