Making Good Excuses: Stories That Keep You From Personal Growth Goals

We all do it. We tell ourselves little stories that justify why we didn’t follow through, why things didn’t work out, or why success seems to evade us. These stories often sound reasonable—they’re what I call “good excuses.” 

The problem is, even a “good” excuse keeps you stuck, holds you back, and prevents you from becoming the person you’re capable of being.

I first learned this lesson after moving to Arizona. I had lunch plans with a colleague, but when the day came, I wasn’t feeling up for it. I made what I thought was a compelling excuse, only to be called out with the simple phrase, “Good excuse.” 

It hit me like a ton of bricks. I realized that no matter how convincing or justified the reason sounded in my head, it was still just an excuse—a convenient way to avoid discomfort, growth, or accountability.

That moment changed the way I approached not only my personal life but also my finances, friendships, and health. I stopped making excuses and started taking ownership of my choices.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common excuses people tell themselves—especially when it comes to financial success—and how you can break free from these stories to finally make progress in your life.

The Stories You Tell Yourself

The stories we tell ourselves often feel like truth. They explain why we aren’t where we want to be in life, why things seem harder for us than for others, or why we “just can’t win.” Below are some of the most common excuses I’ve heard (and told myself) that keep people from succeeding.

“I don’t have enough time.”

This one’s a classic. Whether it’s starting a new business, learning about investing, or getting your finances in order, many people claim they just don’t have the time. The truth is, we all have the same 24 hours. It’s not about time—it’s about priorities. If something truly matters to you, you’ll find the time. The real question is, are you making it a priority?

“Only the rich get richer.”

This is a defeatist mindset that keeps people stuck in a cycle of financial frustration. Blaming external forces like the economy or political parties for your lack of progress may feel comforting, but it’s an excuse that shifts the responsibility away from you. The reality is, the wealthiest individuals didn’t start with all the advantages. They often began by understanding how to use their resources—time, money, and energy—wisely and strategically.

“I’m not smart enough to understand investing.”

Many people believe that financial literacy is only for the elite or highly educated. The truth? Anyone can learn how to manage their money, invest wisely, and build wealth. The key is to start small and keep learning. You don’t need to become a financial genius overnight—you just need to begin.

“I’m too busy taking care of my family.”

While family is a valid priority, many people use this as an excuse not to focus on their own financial well-being. The best way to care for your family is by ensuring your financial house is in order. If you’re constantly in a state of financial stress, that stress will seep into your relationships. Making time for your personal growth goals and financial health isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

How These Excuses Keep You Stuck

Excuses—no matter how valid they may seem—create a comfortable space for you to stay in. They prevent discomfort, but they also prevent growth. When you let yourself believe these stories, you’re essentially handing over control of your life. You’re letting circumstances dictate your future, rather than taking control of your own outcomes.

Excuses offer short-term relief but cause long-term stagnation. Over time, they pile up, creating a wall between you and the success you’re capable of achieving.

Breaking Free from the Excuse Trap

To stop making excuses and start making progress, you need to recognize these stories for what they are: false narratives that hold you back. Here’s how you can begin to break free:

Acknowledge the Excuse

The first step is recognizing when you’re making an excuse. Be honest with yourself. Ask, “Is this really true, or am I just avoiding something uncomfortable?” When you become aware of the excuses you tell yourself, you’re in a position to challenge them.

Shift Your Mindset

Instead of saying, “I can’t,” start asking, “How can I?” This simple shift opens your mind to possibilities instead of focusing on limitations. When you stop looking for reasons why you can’t do something and start seeking solutions, your perspective changes.

Take Small Steps

One of the biggest reasons people stay stuck is that they feel overwhelmed by the size of their personal growth goals. If you’ve convinced yourself that financial success is impossible because it seems so far away, break it down into smaller steps. Focus on improving just 1% each day, and over time, those small changes will compound into significant progress.

Hold Yourself Accountable

The moment you decide to stop making excuses, hold yourself accountable. Share your personal growth goals with someone you trust, write them down, and track your progress. Accountability helps keep you focused and ensures you’re taking consistent action.

Conclusion

Excuses are easy to make but costly in the long run. The stories you tell yourself, no matter how justified they seem, only serve to keep you stuck. By identifying and challenging these excuses, you can break free from the limitations you’ve placed on yourself and take control of your future. 

Whether it’s your health, your relationships, or your finances, it’s time to stop making excuses and start making progress.

Remember, it’s never too late to rewrite the story you’re telling yourself.

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