I have a friend who tells me that she would LOVE to exercise regularly, but she doesn’t have time because she has kids.
I have a neighbor who’s “so, so busy” at work. And another friend who’s “just too tired all the time.”
These excuses are common – and frustrating to hear. I’ve had to accept the fact that there’s only so much I can do to encourage someone to stop using them. But, when they’re ready to make a change, here’s a tactic that works well.
I encourage them to think of these excuses as opportunities for improvement in their lives, rather than as insurmountable obstacles.
For example:
- Instead of using the kids as an excuse to be unhealthy, try to see that they’re a huge reason to take care of yourself.
- Instead of feeling overwhelmed by your professional obligations, learn better time management techniques.
- And if you lack energy, then you need to experience the energy boost you’ll gain from exercise and proper eating.
If you take advantage of these “opportunities,” then you’ll gain health, time, vigor – and skills you can apply in other parts of your life, too.
If you really want healthy habits, you’ll do what’s necessary to build them.
If you don’t, you’ll keep making excuses.
The choice is yours.
