When you ask people for advice, do you really want to hear what they have to say? And, when they DO tell you what to do, do you make excuses for why it can be done?

When you give all the reasons that something can’t be done, it’s usually because you’re not willing to do what it takes to GET it done. Here’s a recap of a conversation that I had recently:

K:  “I just don’t know what to do. My manager is just not giving me enough shifts, and I HAVE to make more money.”

J:  “Why don’t you call and ask her to give you more shifts.”

K:  “I did, but she never returns my calls.”

J:  “Why don’t you go by and talk to her in person.”

K:  “You don’t understand. I have to take the bus downtown to get to my other job, and I don’t get off until late. I just don’t have time.”

J: “Why don’t you go before you have to go downtown and catch the bus from there.”

K: “It’s not that easy. The people in my building kept me up last night, and I got no sleep. The only time I can sleep is in the morning when they have gone to bed.”

J: “If you need to get some sleep, you can stay at my house.”

K: “I can’t do that – all my stuff is here, and it would be a big hassle.”

J: “You could call some of your co-workers and let them know you can take their shifts if they need to be off.”

K: “I don’t have their numbers.”

J: “Why don’t you get them next time you go to work.”

And, the conversation continues. This is a common conversation for many of us. We already have it in our heads that something can’t be done because it seems like such a hassle. It takes extra effort and time to do whatever it takes to reach our goals. And, excuses just delay our success.

So, the next time you find yourself having a conversation like this (and you are the one making the excuses), catch yourself and be open to options. Instead of saying, “But…” followed by why it can’t be done, say, “You know, I might try that. Thanks!”