If you’re anything like me, you know how easy it is to make excuses. We all do it—whether it’s about going to the gym, sending that email, or tackling the dishes that keep staring at us from the sink.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how I handle those excuses, because let’s be honest…they never go away. The difference is how we respond to them.

The Gym Example

Since January, I’ve been going to the gym pretty consistently. But here’s the truth: I still don’t want to go most days. That little voice pops up with its list of excuses:

• “I’ll go later.”

• “I should probably get this other thing done first.”

• “Maybe tomorrow will be better.”

I can’t stop those thoughts from coming, but I can choose what happens next. Instead of letting the excuse win, I flip the script. I picture myself walking out of the gym afterward—how proud, relieved, and energized I’ll feel once it’s done. And more often than not, that vision is enough to push me through the door.

Everyday Excuses

It’s not just about workouts. Excuses show up everywhere:

• Sitting on the couch scrolling instead of sending an important email.

• Putting off a phone call.

• Telling myself the dishes can wait until tomorrow.

None of these things are life-or-death, but they pile up. And the longer I wait, the heavier they feel. So, I’ve started asking myself: How will I feel once this is already done? That simple question gets me moving.

Being Your Own Boss

If you run your own business, you know the struggle. There’s no boss telling you to stay on task or making sure deadlines are met. You are the accountability. That’s why managing excuses is so important.

I remind myself daily that the thoughts will come—I’ll do it later, it’s not urgent, it’s fine to skip today. But the real power is in what comes after those thoughts. I get to decide if the excuse takes over or if I push past it.

And honestly? Looking back at how consistent I’ve been—especially with the gym—makes me proud. It’s not just about checking something off a list. It’s about knowing I did it, even when I didn’t feel like it.

Final Thoughts

Excuses are part of being human. They’re not going away. But the way you handle them determines your growth, your consistency, and your success—whether in fitness, business, or life.

So next time you hear yourself whisper, I’ll do it later, pause and ask: How will I feel if I just get it done now? Chances are, you’ll thank yourself later.