Excuses or Action? The Choice Is Yours

“If it’s important to you, you will find a way. If not, you will find an excuse.”

This powerful quote encapsulates a truth that many of us need to hear, whether we’re chasing athletic goals, building a business, or transforming our lives. Success isn’t automatic. It requires focused effort, unwavering commitment, and action—even when excuses feel easier.

As someone who’s been through the highs and lows of athletic training, including qualifying for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, I’ve faced my fair share of excuses. But over time, I’ve learned that progress and excuses can’t coexist.

We all have excuses ready to pull out when things feel challenging. But are they holding you back? Let’s explore some of the most common excuses and how to overcome them so you can move closer to your goals.

1. “I Don’t Know How”

Not knowing how to start can feel overwhelming, but in today’s world, it’s not a valid excuse. The information you need is readily available. Want to run your first 5K, lose weight, or train for a triathlon? There are countless books, videos, and experts to guide you.

Take Action:

  • Seek a mentor who’s been where you want to go.
  • Start small, experiment, and adjust as you learn.
  • Grab resources like my Ironman Preparation PDF to get started on your Ironman journey!

2. “I’m Afraid”

Fear is universal, but most modern fears are psychological rather than physical. They stem from a fear of failure or judgment, not real danger.

Ask Yourself: What’s the worst that could happen? More often than not, the answer isn’t as scary as we think.

Take Action:
Would you rather protect your ego or achieve your goals? Fear shrinks when you take small, bold steps forward.

Making The Most Of Your Time - Jen Rulon

3. “I Don’t Have Enough Time”

Time is one of the most common excuses, yet we all have the same 24 hours in a day. It’s about prioritizing what matters.

Take Action:

  • Audit your time. How much of it goes to TV, social media, or other distractions?
  • Schedule your priorities, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day to start.

4. “I Don’t Have Enough Money”

Financial limitations don’t have to stop you from pursuing your goals. Creative solutions can bridge the gap.

For Triathletes:

  • Use what you already have, like borrowing a bike or running in shoes you own.
  • Grab a pair of goggles for $10, a swimsuit for $50, and hit the pool.
  • Start small—your first race doesn’t have to break the bank!

Take Action: Focus on starting rather than waiting for perfect conditions.

5. “It’s Too Late for Me”

Is it really too late? People have achieved incredible feats later in life—climbing Everest in their 80s, earning degrees in their 60s, or switching careers at 50.

Take Action:

  • Redefine what’s possible.
  • Start where you are, knowing that effort matters more than timing.

6. “It’s Too Hard”

Success often looks intimidating, but don’t let perceived difficulty stop you. Many who achieve greatness do so not because they’re the most talented, but because they persist.

Take Action:

  • Focus on small, consistent steps.
  • Realize that most people quit early, which means simply showing up sets you apart.

Excuses or Results? You Decide

People who achieve their goals have one thing in common: they let go of excuses. They face their fears, push through discomfort, and take consistent action.

What excuses are holding you back? Recognize them, challenge them, and replace them with action.

When I let go of my own fears and embraced the work, I found my way to Kona and beyond—not for anyone else, but for me. The same is possible for you. Choose your priorities. Take action. And watch how your life transforms.

You’ve got this! 🌟