Excuses build walls; courage breaks them down.
-Wilson Alvarez

Do you have a dream you want to achieve but feel like you lack the energy or drive to pursue it? You’re not alone. Many people go through life filled with unfulfilled dreams, and most often, the only thing holding them back is themselves. While unexpected life events can sometimes pause our plans, it’s usually our own excuses that block our progress.

Excuses are powerful. They seem to justify inaction and keep us in our comfort zones. The list of excuses is long and familiar, and many of us have become professionals at making them. Here are a few common ones that may sound familiar:

  • “I can’t.”
  • “It’s too much work.”
  • “It’s too expensive.”
  • “I’ll never reach the goal anyway.”
  • “I just started a new relationship.”
  • “I just got a new job.”
  • “I’m exhausted.”

Then there are the lighter, humorous excuses that still keep us stuck:

  • “My favorite show is on tonight.”
  • “I need to eat comfort food first.”
  • “I just sneezed; I’m probably getting sick.”
  • “I’m tired because I binge-watched my favorite series.”

Although these excuses can be funny, they highlight a common barrier to success: procrastination. Every time we say, “I’ll do it later,” we’re pushing our dreams further out of reach. Proverbs 6:4-5 encourages us, “Do not put off, for tomorrow may be too late.” Excuses and delays rob us of opportunities to pursue our potential.

One surprising reason some people procrastinate is fear—not fear of failure, but fear of success. The thought of achieving everything we’ve dreamed of can be intimidating. Success brings change, and with that comes new questions. Imagine you start the business you’ve always wanted, and it thrives. Suddenly, you face decisions about managing growth, hiring others, and handling new responsibilities. The fear of “what comes next” can be daunting.

Overcoming the fear of success requires us to focus on the journey rather than the destination. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Achieving one goal isn’t the end; it’s the beginning of the next adventure. Once you accomplish your dream, you get to set new goals and reach for even greater heights. Don’t let excuses hold you back from the life you want to create. Take a deep breath, trust in your potential, and take the first step toward your dreams today.

Excuses hold us back from the life we want to live. Let go of procrastination, overcome the fear of success, and start your journey to achieving your dreams.

Ready to leave excuses behind? Let’s go! Start your journey toward success today and make those dreams a reality.