People are full of excuses. Reasons why they’re late to work, why they can’t make it to a family function or why they aren’t living a healthy lifestyle. The truth is, excuses hold us back. They hold us back from being honest, from feeling fulfilled and from living a happy and healthy life. If you have a habit of making excuses for your behavior, it’s time to stop letting negativity stand in your way.

These six life excuses breed negativity:

1. “I Don’t Have Time”

You might be busy, but the hard truth is: people make time for the things that are important to them. Saying “I don’t have time” is simply a form of procrastination. It means that you don’t want to make time. Whether it’s exercising, taking a vacation or going to dinner with a friend, be honest about the reason you’re putting it off. It’s not because you don’t have time.

2. “It’s Too Hard”

Nothing positive comes out of this statement. Telling yourself that something is too hard is the same thing as telling yourself that you are incapable. If you’re up against something difficult, that’s all the more reason to work even harder to achieve your goal! Stop your negative thoughts in their tracks and tell yourself that you are strong and capable.

3. “I’ll Look Stupid”

Many people struggle with a fear of rejection. Worrying about how you’ll look in front of others can hold you back from doing some amazing things! Don’t let fear and negativity stop you from living your life. Sing karaoke, ride a mechanical bull and wear mismatched socks if you want to! Forget what everyone else thinks and do what makes you happy.

4. “The World Is Against Me”

Every once in a while, it can seem like everything that could possibly go wrong, is. These are the times when negative thoughts tend to take over. You might think that the world is against you, or a co-worker is out to get you. Even if someone is in fact trying to steal your happiness, that’s all the more reason to get back up when you fall. If you don’t like your circumstances, do something to change them. Remember that happiness comes from within.

5. “I’m Not Strong Enough”

Whether or not you’re strong enough is up to you. True inner strength is about letting go of your fears or anything else that’s holding you back. It’s about deciding that you are strong, capable and worthy. It might take some hard work, and you might experience some setbacks, but don’t let your mind trick you into thinking you’re not strong enough to achieve something great.

6. “I’ll Do It… One Day”

There is no better time than the present. Don’t cheat yourself by putting things on hold that you truly want. This is your life! Go after what you want. Travel, explore, meet new people, learn a new language, take dance lessons or learn how to play an instrument. If there’s something you’ve been wanting to do, now is the time to do it. Don’t let fear or irrational thoughts stand in your way.

Sources:
Power of Positivity
Life Coach Expert
Reader’s Digest