Often times people give reasons for why they cannot achieve a specific goal or outcome that could significantly enhance their lives. For example:

"I can't finish college because......."
"I can't get a good paying job because...."
"I can't lose weight because...."
"I can't stop gang banging because...."
"I can't save money because...."
"I can't improve my life or achieve my dreams because....."

We tend to fill in the blanks for these claims with a myriad of reasons. However, while some reasons may be valid, most are simply excuses. So, what I invite those of you who seem to always be bogged down by excuses to do, is to begin turning your excuses into questions. Let's give it a try by responding to the claims provided above.

What would my life be like if I graduated from college?
What would my life be like if I got a good paying job?
What would my life be like if I lost weight?
What would my life be like if I stopped the violence?
What would my life be like if I had money saved?
What would my life be like if I improved my life?
And of most importance, what would my life be like if I acknowledged my personal power in valuing and transforming my life into what I want it to be?

If the answers to your questions motivate you to get into action then get back on track and do what you know needs to be done. However, if your responses don't motivate you into action then you may be pursuing the wrong goals and may need to rethink why you were interested in taking on these goals.

Turning your excuses into questions will reduce your tendency to fall prey to complacency, procrastination, and laziness when they begin to give rise to your excuses. Remember to never relinquish your dreams to excuses, as your contribution to society and yourself will be terribly missed.

Author's Bio: 

Dr. Barrett has an earned PhD in applied management and decision sciences, with a specialization in leadership and organizational change. He also holds a MS in organizational leadership and a BS in organizational management. In addition to these degrees, Dr. Barrett has completed several executive certificates focusing on various areas of management and leadership development.

Dr. Barrett is proud of his academic accomplishments, as they are the product of his long and sometimes difficult journey out of poverty. Along his journey, Dr. Barrett served honorably in the U.S. Air Force, participating in several vital overseas operations in the Middle East and Europe. He has also taught organizational leadership courses at the graduate degree level at Mercy College. This desire to develop leadership whether it be in myself or others is what drives Dr. Barrett. Dr. Barrett currently lives in NYC, where he runs The Barrett Center for Leadership Development, LLC ( http://www.TheBarrettCenter.com ) and produces The Barrett Leadership Blog ( www.TheBarrettCenter.blogspot.com )