The 10 Most Common Excuses for Not Reaching Your Goals and Why Thy are B.S.

There are many reasons why people fail at reaching their goals, and these are typically triggered by their mindset. While I understand that the word “mindset” may be a cliché, it’s worth exploring when you’re not achieving your desired goals.

To avoid creating these obstacles in the first place, it's important to reset your mindset.

You want to achieve great things, but you have various excuses that prevent you from moving forward. These are typically thoughts that come to mind when you are trying to achieve a goal, such as starting a new business, losing weight, or any other big goals you would like to accomplish.

These are the reasons why people fail at reaching their goals, and it's important to reset your mindset so that you don't create these obstacles in the first place.

1. Money

It's time to prioritize your finances. It's also important to identify the items that you can cut down on by identifying your needs and wants. For instance, try making your own meals instead of going out during the week.

If your goal is to inspire others, then allow people to help. There are many people who are willing to give back to a cause that they believe in, if it's something that you can share with them.

Even though there are many people you can reach out to, be sure to have a plan in place so that you can ask for help. Having a plan will allow you to make an informed decision when it comes to asking for money.

Also consider obtaining a business loan. A business loan could be the steppingstone you need to jump start your business and give you momentum you need to renew your confidence. If you take this route, be sure to have a plan for the business loas, as well.

You want to create a plan that gives each dollar of the loan an assignment and purpose. This will help you spend wisely and meet the intended goal, which is to scale your business.

2. I Don’t Have Time

I've worked with many clients who are both full-time parents and are also working on launching a business. Not to mention, some are involved in other activities that have priority in their life.

When I hear people saying, "I don't have time," I think of it as a sign that they are not in control of their lives. It's important to control what you can control and make the most of your time. For instance, if you have big plans, it's okay to decline invitations.

3. I’m Overwhelmed

There are many aspects of a goal that can be daunting, even if it's a grand one. It can be hard to start when you don't know how to properly implement the plan. One simple strategy is to focus on the small steps that will lead to your goal.

For instance, if your goal is to lose 30 pounds in 30 days, focus on the small steps that will lead to it instead of the overall goal. By focusing on the daily goals, you'll be able to reach your desired results.

4. It’s Not the Right Time to Start

Timing is everything and if you feel it’s the wrong time to act, you may be right. However, achieving a goal don’t mean instant gratification. It may mean taking a small step, such as, studying, writing an action plan, or discussing your plan with your spouse.

Too often I hear clients say that it’s going to take five years to accomplish their goal. My response is, five years is going to pass whether you take action or not.

There will always be something that will come up, and you'll likely end up kicking yourself for not working hard enough to achieve that goal. There are many things in life that you regret, and you don't want to be one of those people.

5. Fear

There are always going to be people who are afraid of something. But they have the will to overcome their fears.

One of the most important things that people can do is to embrace fear. It can help them reach their goals and make them feel like they have a big enough chance to succeed.

6. I’m Too Young or I’m Too Old

With your youth, you have the advantage of having time and health (generally). You also have fewer obligations than an adult. If anything, now is the time to start planning for your financial future.

If you're over 50 years old and have arthritis or diabetes, then it's time to retire. At least, that's what most people think.

Ray Kroc was a man who had minor health issues. However, he believed that his best days were still ahead of him. He focused on the people and made a successful restaurant chain known as McDonalds.

7. There’s No Point

I'm often surprised by how many people who I know suddenly stop believing in themselves. They used to believe that they deserved success, but their past failures have caused them to no longer think that way. They act this way to protect themselves from disappointment.

If you allow your past to consume you, you might end up with a life of mediocrity. It does not define your future, and it will not make you into the person you want to be. Instead, focus on the lessons that have helped you become who you are today.

8. It’s Too Hard

No matter how hard you try, you'll eventually find it hard to get where you want to go, with old thinking or practices. We want people to succeed because they put in the work required to get there, and it only feels hard because they haven't done it before.

Learning new skills and gaining the necessary knowledge can make doing something that you previously thought was impossible fun and easy.

If you're still playing it safe and are not willing to face the consequences of your actions, then you will eventually pay the price. Developing mental strength is the key to surviving difficult situations. I encourage you to leave your comfort zone and embrace the journey, process, and sometimes failure of doing something new.

9. Others May Judge Me

I'm writing this to ask you one question: What makes the opinion of others important? For me, it's because quitting is an option that you have when it comes to setting goals.

Believing that you're not ambitious enough will only validate your decision. On the other hand, they'll give you praise when you hit your objectives.

Don’t allow the judgement of others hinder you.

10. I’m Afraid of Failing

There is a 50-50 chance of success or failure, but you should always be aware of the risks involved. For instance, if you're planning on starting a business, you have a 50% chance of making it work, but a 100% chance of failure if you don’t try at all.

Your excuses can be used as an opportunity to reframe them in a positive manner. Doing so will help you gain momentum and reach your goals. These are the stories that you are telling yourself, and they are part of a larger story that you are trying to tell. Having these stories in your head will allow you to start writing a new story that will help you reach your objectives in the new year.

You Got This!