Excuses are like…

Crude as it is, most of us have heard and probably used the expression,

“Excuses are like arseholes – everyone’s got one!”

I’ve always thought that it was a rather amusing way to point out when you or someone else is making an excuse; when you’re essentially finding a way to not do something rather than finding a way to do it.

Throughout November, I’ve been trying to push myself a little harder towards good habits, primarily exercising first thing in the morning to kick-start my mood and energy.

And what I’ve noticed is that the excuses are ALWAYS there.

It’s too cold. I didn’t sleep well. I’m hormonal. I have a cold. I have thing to do. My calves are tight. And bla bla bla. 

I’ve also realised that I’m not alone here. Every single person on the planet has a myriad of excuses at their disposal if they wish to avoid something. Whether this is something seemingly trivial like my slight sniffle/man-flu… or something much bigger.

Here, I’m thinking of a woman who chose to forgive her son’s murderer, offering him a home and a job in the hope that she could create a positive change from tragedy. I’m thinking about Bethany Hamilton, a girl who had her arm bitten off by a shark, yet continued on to be one of the best surfers in the world. I’m thinking of the survivors of addiction, abuse and neglect, who not only manage to turn their lives around, but support others in doing the same. 

My excuses seem utterly pathetic in comparison to the likes of these people. Of course though, that isn’t the point.

The point is that anybody can find an excuse, no matter how big or small. But we can also find a reason.

Don’t waste your life waiting to feel motivated; waiting for the time to be right; waiting to feel ready; waiting to be 100%. This day will never come.

Just set your excuses to one side and do what needs to be done, regardless.

And repeat. Repeat. Repeat.