Picture this: You’re in a boxing ring, facing an opponent who knows all your weaknesses. Every time you step forward to throw a punch—whether it’s committing to the gym, scheduling a check-up, or working on your mental health—this opponent throws a counter. His name? Excuses. And here’s the kicker: he’s undefeated because you’ve let him win every single time.

We’ve all been there, telling ourselves, “I’ll start tomorrow,” or “I don’t have the time right now.” But here’s the hard truth: tomorrow rarely comes, and the time never magically appears. Excuses aren’t just harmless words—they’re the walls we build between ourselves and the healthier, more successful lives we deserve.

Excuses Sabotage Health

As men, we take pride in being strong, capable, and dependable, yet we often sabotage ourselves with these excuses. Let’s get real about how they show up in our lives and how they keep us stuck:

• Avoiding the Doctor: “I feel fine; I don’t need to go.” Sound familiar? Men are twice as likely as women to skip annual check-ups. But health isn’t something you can afford to gamble with. Conditions like high blood pressure or prediabetes can lurk in the background for years, waiting to strike when it’s too late. (UAB Medicine)
• Neglecting Mental Well-being: Mental health often takes a backseat in our pursuit of physical fitness. Statements like “I don’t have time” or “I can handle it myself” are common excuses. Yet, prioritizing mental wellness is essential for overall health.
• Skipping Workouts: The classic excuse: “I just don’t have time.” But let’s be honest—how much time do you spend scrolling on your phone or binge-watching TV? Even 30 minutes a day can transform your health and energy levels.
• Staying in a Job You Hate: “Now isn’t the right time to make a change.” How long have you been saying that? Years? If you dread going to work every day but keep making excuses not to look for something better, you’re actively choosing dissatisfaction over growth. The truth is, there’s never a “perfect time” to make a change. You just have to start.
• Not Fixing Relationships: “It’s just how things are.” Whether it’s with a spouse, kids, or friends, too many men let relationships erode because they assume things will never change. But refusing to have tough conversations or put in the effort only deepens the distance. If something matters to you, stop making excuses and do the work to fix it.

Research indicates that habitual excuse-making can lead to a sense of helplessness and a victim mentality, preventing individuals from recognizing and harnessing their power to effect change in their lives (letstalkaboutmentalhealth.com.au).

You Have The Power To Choose

But here’s the good news: You can beat this opponent. You don’t have to stay in the corner, taking punches from excuses. You can step up, take control, and win this fight for your health, success, and future. That’s where I come in.

As a life coach specializing in men’s personal growth, I’ve seen firsthand how addressing these barriers can change lives. My approach is simple: identify what’s holding you back, develop and execute a plan. No fluff. No excuses.

Let me help you build a strategy to knock out the excuses once and for all. Visit Nathan Driskell Coaching today and schedule your free 15-minute consultation. It’s time to step out of the ring victorious—and into the life you deserve.

Your excuses don’t have to define you. Make the choice today to take back your power and start building the life you’ve always wanted.

Sources

1. 5 Excuses from Men for Avoiding the Doctor and Why They Don’t Fly. UAB Medicine.
2. 233: Excuses And How They Affect Your Mental Health. Let’s Talk About Mental Health