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5 Signs You’re Just Making Excuses for Why You Haven’t Done Something

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Hello, my beautiful sisters.

Today, let’s talk about something we all do at some point: making excuses.

We dream big, set goals, and tell ourselves we’re going to get started… but then, life gets in the way. Or does it? Are the things holding us back real obstacles, or are they excuses we’ve created to stay in our comfort zone?

If you’ve been putting off that thing—whether it’s launching your business, going back to school, or even starting a healthier lifestyle—this is for you.

Let’s dive into five signs that you might be making excuses, and how to break free so you can finally move forward.


Why We Make Excuses

Sisters, we all have dreams for ourselves, but chasing those dreams can be scary.

Maybe you’re worried about failing, or you think, What if I’m not good enough? Maybe you’re juggling a million responsibilities and feel like there’s no room for your goals.

But deep down, you know the truth.

You want more for yourself, and every time you say “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “I’m too busy,” a little part of you feels disappointed. It’s okay to admit it—we’ve all been there.

Today, we’re going to face those excuses head-on and figure out how to push past them.


Excuses Are Fear in Disguise

Excuses often come from a place of fear: fear of failure, fear of success, fear of judgment.

But what if you could reframe that fear? What if instead of thinking about what could go wrong, you started thinking about what could go right?


You’re Stronger Than Your Excuses

Sisters, you have everything you need to take the first step.

Don’t let fear hold you back. You are capable of doing hard things. You are worthy of your goals. And you are allowed to grow into the woman you’ve always wanted to be.


5 Signs You’re Making Excuses

1. You Keep Saying, “I Don’t Have Time”
Truth check: Time is rarely the issue. It’s about priorities. If something matters, you’ll find time—even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Are you scrolling through social media when you could be working on your goals?

How to Overcome It: Start small. Dedicate a specific block of time each day to your goal, even if it’s just 15 minutes.

2. You’re Waiting for “The Right Moment”
Spoiler alert: There’s no perfect time. Life will always have challenges, and waiting for ideal conditions often means waiting forever.

How to Overcome It: Start where you are with what you have. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to start.

3. You Blame External Factors
“It’s too expensive.” “I don’t have enough support.” While these might feel valid, are they truly stopping you, or are they convenient reasons to stay where you are?

How to Overcome It: Find creative solutions. If cost is a barrier, look for free resources or build a budget. If support is lacking, find an accountability partner.

4. You Keep Researching Instead of Doing
Are you stuck in analysis paralysis? Research feels productive, but it can also be a way to avoid taking action.

How to Overcome It: Set a deadline to stop researching and start doing. Action creates clarity, not overthinking.

5. You Tell Yourself, “I’m Not Ready”
Guess what? No one feels 100% ready. The truth is, readiness comes after you take the leap, not before.

How to Overcome It: Remind yourself that growth happens outside your comfort zone. Take the leap, even if it feels uncomfortable.


Image from the Black Girl Heal website article: 5 Signs You're Just Making Excuses for Why You Haven’t Done Something
Credit: Canva

How to Stop Making Excuses

  1. Write Down Your Excuses
    Get honest with yourself. What reasons are you giving for not starting? Seeing them on paper can help you recognize patterns.
  2. Challenge Your Excuses
    For every excuse, ask yourself, “Is this really true? Or is it fear talking?”
  3. Set Micro-Goals
    Break your big goal into small, manageable steps. It’s easier to start when the task feels less overwhelming.
  4. Create Accountability
    Tell someone you trust about your goal and ask them to check in on your progress.
  5. Visualize Success
    Picture what your life will look like when you achieve your goal. Use that vision as motivation to keep moving forward.

Uplifting Call to Action

Sisters, it’s time to stop letting excuses run your life.

You have dreams for a reason—they are part of your purpose. And you are so much stronger than the fear that’s holding you back.

The next time you catch yourself making an excuse, pause and ask: Is this excuse serving me, or is it stopping me? Then, make a choice to move forward.

You’ve got this. Let’s leave the excuses behind and start living the life you’ve always dreamed of. It’s your time to shine, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

Author

  • Shelia Huggins Photo for Black Girl Heal Blog

    Shelia Huggins is a 20+ year attorney who has helped clients with their business and personal legal challenges. She blogs at Black Girl Heal to provide insight and practical strategies for those seeking to heal the struggles of their wallets, mindsets, and lives. Known as "Ms Legalista" on YouTube, she is passionate about helping people find their path and achieve the personal success they've been looking for.

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