Stop Making Excuses and Start Enjoying Life

Best-selling author Wayne Dyer tells how to reverse the thinking that is holding you back, and replace excuses with affirmations.

By Wayne W. Dyer

In my role as a counselor, teacher, and parent, I’ve heard many reasons people use to explain an unhappy existence, and almost all of them inevitably fall into one huge category that I call "excuses." Every self-limiting thought that you employ to explain why you’re not living life to the absolute fullest—so you’re feeling purposeful, content, and fully alive—is something you can challenge and reverse. You can begin by noticing how these thoughts have been working to hold you back.

Here are nine commonly used excuses, as well as affirmations to help you change your beliefs about each of them--and live an excuse-free life, one day at a time, one miracle at a time.

Start the first motivational affirmation now!

Dr. Wayne W. Dyer is a renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development. This is adapted from his newest book, Excuses Begone! (Hay House, May 2009) and used with permission of Hay House. Learn more at Dr. Dyer’s website.

Choose Ease

Excuse: It will be difficult.

Try This Affirmation: I have the ability to accomplish any task I set my mind to with ease and comfort.

Have Patience

Excuse: It will take a long time.

Try This Affirmation: I have infinite patience when it comes to fulfilling my destiny.

I Am Deserving

Excuse: I don’t deserve it.

Try This Affirmation: I am a Divine creation, a piece of God. Therefore, I cannot be undeserving.

Abundance Is Mine

Excuse: I can’t afford it.

Try This Affirmation: I am connected to an unlimited source of abundance.

I Am Strong

Excuse: I’m not strong enough.

Try This Affirmation: I have access to unlimited assistance. My strength comes from my connection to my Source of being.

I Am Infinite

Excuse: I’m too old (or not old enough).

Try This Affirmation: I am an infinite being. The age of my body has no bearing on what I do or who I am.

I Live in the Present Moment

Excuse: It’s my personal family history.

Try This Affirmation: I live in the present moment by being grateful for all of my life experiences as a child.

I Have the Time I Need

Excuse: I’m too busy.

Try This Affirmation: As I unclutter my life, I free myself to answer the callings of my soul.

I Am Courageous

Excuse: I’m too scared.

Try This Affirmation: I can accomplish anything I put my mind to, because I know that I am never alone.