Cheesy title, right?
Excuses. We use them all day, everyday. This year has been all about personal growth for me, and a huge part of that has been becoming more mindful of my thoughts and how they direct my actions. As it turns out, my self doubting thoughts and lack of confidence thoughts have been seriously controlling my actions and behaviors. I use excuses to justify my actions, but in reality I’m just afraid of failing. So, instead of facing my daily challenges with confidence I hold myself back by saying “I’m not ready, I need more time” or “I don’t know enough about that” or “I’m just really tired and stressed”. We live in a world of instant gratification and when something doesn’t go our way in an instant we move on. The grass is always greener, right? I don't think so. That way of thinking is idealistic not realistic. We trade in our brand new iPhone 7 for a brand new iPhone 8 because it is the next best thing. We don’t take time to cultivate anything. We cultivate growth, relationships, friendships, happiness, chemistry, confidence, but we have to put in the work. And unfortunately, through our idealistic ways of thinking we assume that everything we want should come easy, and if it doesn’t, we assume it must not be right. But again, that’s just not realistic and our excuses are limiting our abilities to achieve. My excuses limit my growth and opportunities on a daily basis.
So, what can we do? I personally love reading other's view points on controlling their use of excuses, and limiting behaviors and thoughts. I'm a personal growth junkie! Seriously, any chance to learn potential ways to live a happier, more fulfilled life.. I'll take it.I think recognizing your use of excuses, self-doubting thoughts, and limiting behaviors is the first big step. I've also found that the more organized I am with my schedule and personal space, the better I feel as well. I try to keep my work space as clean and pretty as possible. Sometimes that means shopping the dollar section at Target for pretty, yet unnecessary office supplies. We've all been there, right? Sometimes it means buying some fresh flowers and scented candles for my desk. All this is to say, we all have our own ways of coping with our limiting thoughts and use of excuses. If you haven't quite found your perfect combo yet, don't sweat it! Props to you for even trying!
Be resilient, stay positive, stay away from excuses, you've got this. And, if you have any suggestions for coping with limiting thoughts, personal growth activities to share, or ideas for balancing a lifestyle not propelled by instant gratification, I'd love to hear from you!
