I don’t have time because I’m tired from watching TV.

A man who wants to do something will find a way; a man who doesn’t will find an excuse. – Stephen Dolley Jr

I love making lists and unfortunately my list of excuses is probably one of my longest lists.  For years, I made up all sorts of excuses of why I couldn’t lose weight, get in shape, or eat healthy.  Then one day I was done and I took a baby step. Now day by day I inch toward my goals.  Do I still make excuses?  Daily.  But now I cross them off of my list and find a way to make it happen….most of the time.  Here’s a list of common excuses I’ve used and I bet you’ve used one or two too!

I don’t have time.
Turn off the TV.  Get off the computer. Don’t sleep in.  You can find 20 minutes a day if you want to.  Cook in bulk.  Brown bag it. Get the grilled chicken instead of the Big Mac when you’re going through the drive thru.  (I’m not encouraging fast food but I don’t know you or your life and maybe that is your reality.)

I can’t afford it.
You can’t afford NOT to.  Medical care is not cheap.  I use rusty old weights in my garage that I got for free or for cheap. Get a few used DVDs.  Run or walk outside.  Body weight exercises rock.  Shop the sale flyer.  Even the 99 cent store carries veggies and fruit.

I’m injured.
Then you may need to get some expert assistance but unless you are in a body cast or on your death bed you can do something.  I wish you the best on your recovery.

Everyone else is eating it.
So what. Be different.

I don’t know how.
There are a million sites on the internet or books at the library that will give you the basics to working out.  It’s not rocket science.  If you can walk you can exercise.  Free recipes on the internet abound.  I own Cooking for Dummies which I got for free.

Working out is boring.
So is being unhealthy and complaining your clothes don’t fit.

My kids eat junk all the time.
Be their role model.

I’m tired.
You won’t be if you eat right, exercise and get some sleep.

I don’t like healthy food.
There are hundreds and hundreds of healthy options. I’m sure you can find something. If you really can’t stand “healthy” food, i.e., lean protein, veggies, fruits, whole grains, ect and you’ve been eating nothing but processed junk for years you will need to retrain your senses and preferences.  You will eventually learn to like real food.  It can be done.  Really it can.

There’s temptations everywhere.
Yep.  That’s life.  Remember nothing tastes as good as being lean and healthy feels.

I’m depressed.
I know from experience depression is not an excuse to not exercise and eat well but rather a reason you must exercise and eat well.  If you are severely depressed reach out to others who are in a similar struggle.  There is hope and you will find your way out of the dark cave of depression.

I don’t like working out or eating healthy.
Then don’t complain because this is the only way to get or stay healthy.  I don’t think there is necessarily anything wrong with not wanting to have optimal healhth  but accept it as your choice and be prepared to deal with any consequences that may arise.

I know I’m being a hard azz but it’s the truth.  I know.  I’ve been there.  I’ve used all these excuses (and more) at some point but it does get easier.  Maybe not easy but easier.  I promise.

xoxo
j

Tags: Motivation, quotes, weight loss

About jennincat

I'm so happy you stopped by my little corner of the web where I write about fitness, food, and amazing women I "meet". I live in California with my wonderful husband and two rambunctious boys. I'm a personal trainer and dreamer. I enjoy most things but some of my favorites are reading, acting, camping, cooking, music, writing, traveling, and being in the moment with my favorite people! You can read more about me here! I hope you stop by often!

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