The difference between limiting beliefs and excuses are important to understand. Both will hold you back, but they operate in different ways.
Limiting Beliefs
Limiting beliefs are deeply held convictions or thoughts about yourself, your abilities, or the world around you that restrict your potential. These beliefs often stem from past experiences, societal messages, or self-doubt, and they shape how you see what's possible for you.
Examples of limiting beliefs:
"I’ll never be good enough."
"I’m not smart enough to succeed."
“I have been big my whole life I will always be big."
“I’m too old and too far gone it’s too late to try”
“My parents are over weight I’m going to be overweight ”
"I'm in menopause there is no point in trying"
Limiting beliefs create a mental barrier. They make you think that something isn't possible because you’ve internalized the idea that you’re incapable of achieving it.
These beliefs are often subconscious, and until they are identified and challenged, they can keep you stuck in the same patterns.
Excuses
Excuses, on the other hand, are rationalizations or justifications that prevent you from taking action or moving forward. I like to call them obstacles! Unlike limiting beliefs, excuses are more consciously made and are often about external circumstances/obstacles that you blame for not achieving your goals.
Excuses tend to be more of a "reason" why you can’t do something, rather than a belief that it’s impossible for you.
Examples of excuses:
"I don’t have enough time to work out."
"I don’t have the money to eat healthy."
"I’m too tired to go to the gym."
“It’s not the right time after things settle down”
Excuses often arise when you’re faced with the discomfort of change or effort. They may be rooted in fear, laziness, or avoidance of discomfort, and they can be used to justify staying in your comfort zone.
Key Differences:
Limiting beliefs are internal stories you tell yourself about what is possible for you, while excuses are external reasons/obstacles you create to avoid action.
Limiting beliefs restrict your potential by shaping your perception of what’s possible, whereas excuses provide a way to avoid taking responsibility for your actions or inactions.
Both will sabotage progress, but by challenging your limiting beliefs and recognizing when you're making excuses, you can take ownership of your success and start moving forward. It’s about changing your mindset and taking consistent action.
