4 Simple Ways to Stop Making Excuses


Introduction

We all do it—delay a task, explain away our failures, or tell ourselves we’ll “start tomorrow.” But here’s the truth: the longer you keep making excuses, the further success drifts away. If you want to change your life, you must stop making excuses and start taking action today.

If you’re tired of watching opportunities pass by, here are four powerful steps to stop making excuses and finally pursue the life you know you’re capable of living.


1. Face the Truth About Your Excuses

Excuses often disguise themselves as reasons — “I don’t have time,” “I’m not ready,” or “I’ll start tomorrow.” But deep down, you know they’re holding you back. Take a moment to write down your most common excuses. Seeing them on paper makes them real, and once they’re real, you can face them.


2. Replace Fear With Empowering Truths

Behind every excuse is a fear: fear of failure, rejection, or even success. Instead of feeding that fear, replace it with truth. If your excuse is “I’m not good enough,” remind yourself, “Everyone starts somewhere — growth comes through practice, not perfection.”


3. Take the First Brave Step

Excuses lose their power the moment you move. Start small but start today — send the email, make the call, draft the first page. The courage to take one small action creates momentum, and that momentum breaks the chains of hesitation.


4. Stay Accountable to Your Future Self

Accountability transforms intentions into action. Share your goal with someone you trust or set reminders that keep your future self in focus. Each step you take becomes a promise to the person you’re becoming — the version of you who refused to settle for excuses.


Conclusion

Excuses may feel like protection, but they’re really prisons. Choosing action over excuses is choosing freedom, growth, and fulfillment. Remember: the day you stop making excuses is the day you start unlocking your true potential.


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Jane Egerton-Idehen is a telecommunication executive with over 13 years’ experience in the Nigerian, Liberian and Ghanaian telecommunications markets. Jane has a strong passion for promoting girls in STEM and ensuring women in STEM industries remain and grow their careers in that industry. She curates her thoughts around her career journey, experiences and passion in life.