When I decided to share the No Excuses! exercise it was more because I was feeling a pull to do it again than anything else.
And, since Im all about bringing others into the proverbial fray, I decided to see if I could lure a few of you into joining me.
Still I was surprised how many of you clicked on the photo above to make it bigger & emailed asking about it/commenting on how few excuses I had.
Believe me, Ren Man was being kind. The back of the shirt is crammed with tinier writing & a plethora of pathetic rationalizations.
So here’s my deal: Right now Im ok with regards to the exercise-piece.
Right now Im the Excuse Master of why Ive not yet started a picture book I claim to want to write. The book (the Tornado’s story) is my number one priority yet Im paralyzed with where to begin.
Except with regards to the excuse-making.
I seem NOT to be paralyzed there.
You see, in my opinion, excuses are something we tell ourselves to avoid taking action.
In this picture book instance that’s 100% me.
I want the book to be so mind blowingly amazetastic —-Im afraid to start.
Yet, even while mired in this paralysis, Im thisclose to realizing it would feel better to try & “fail” (if I try whether it can even be called failing is indeed debatable) than is does to carry these exhausting excuses around with me.
My realization after creating this last tee?
When I make an excuse to myself REPEATEDLY it becomes a belief. When I repeat this belief to myself (even subconsciously) it becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy.
My repeated excuse making has served to negate my taking personal responsibility for following through on something I *really* do wish to complete.
This time?
Finally?
Im taking responsibility.
I give you the Five ways I will STOP MAKING EXCUSES & START moving forward today. By MizFit.
1. I will remind myself that success or failure is dependent on me. While this initially read as a little daunting Im choosing to view it as empowering. I am deciding to write this book. I am in control over whether I succeed (completion!) or fail (never starting). Hell, there are so many facets of my life where Im reliant upon others for success—I am choosing to view this as a gift. I am celebrating that it’s my choice.
2. I will be honest with myself. After making my tee (& I suggest you do this with yours as well!) I stepped back and soul-searched for a few days. Was I really making excuses or is the book honestly not a priority right now? My answer was Sister yer making some sad excuses! Take a moment and examine the issue your tee addresses. Is the part of your life where you’re excuseFILLED right now simply not a priority? That’s ok as well.
3. I will no longer be Rationalization McGee. I can not recall who said this (anyone?) but rationalization is our effort to hide shameful conduct from ourselves. While I dont *always* agree with that sentiment—-in this instance it’s true. My tee is crammed with I DONT HAVE TIME! excuses. For me what looks like laziness is actually fear. Fear that I wont be able to execute something as amazing as what’s in my creativebrain. Think about what you wrote on your shirt. Are any of your rationalizations more fear-based than anything else?
4. I will make PLANS not excuses. Im in touch enough with myself to realize that today I am feeling empowered—but tomorrow my good intentions may wane. This is ok. What I am now choosing to do is make plans not excuses. If Im not working as diligently as Id hoped on the book I will schedule time to do so—I wont revert to old behaviors and spout a litany of excuses why Im not.
5. I will become Ben Franklin(‘s quote). To know me at all is to be aware I personify Mr. Franklin’s well known early to bed adage. It’s far lesser know (unless youve been in my office) that I love this quote of his as well: He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else. It’s posted on the corner of my computer screen and, after going through the whole No Excuses! tee process again, I think it shall be posted a few other places too.
So there you have it.
What my No Excuses!tee was about this time around, why I believe Ive made excuses in the past and how I intended to overcome the excuse-habit.
YOU?
Did you join me in this tee’venture?
Are you an excuse maker like I am or is your reason for rationalizing of a different type?
Have an tips, suggestions or words of encourgement for me as I strive to MAKE PLANS NOT EXCUSES?
Please to hit us all up in the comments.
Pamela says
May 17, 2010 at 2:07 amExcellent post! I think I have a lot of soul-searching to do…
Jess says
May 17, 2010 at 2:19 amI did NOT join you on your tee-adventure because nobody was around to write my excuses down for me, but I’ve realized that I can conquer my excuses. Most of the time, they are me being lazy or me being afraid, and the more I run, the more I get out of my box and try new things (bosu, food, swim, etc.) the more I believe in myself. The more I believe in myself, the less excuses I have. I CAN do everything. And so I’ve stopped using excuses as a crutch. If I have an off day, I have an off day. Since I don’t justify it, I’m able to move on. Off days are acceptable! I’m not perfect, and that’s fine. Because I’ve come to that realization, I’ve finally been able to slowly let go of my excuses.
Laura says
May 17, 2010 at 3:23 amI love that B.F. quote.
I joined you in this without asking someone to write my excuses on me (I did it myself) because I made the excuse I had no one to ask (following me here?).
I was more embarassed than anything else.
THANK YOU FOR THIS EXERCISE.
Helen says
May 17, 2010 at 3:31 amWell Mix my tee is about exercise : ) weights to be specific.
I am stealing your make plans not excuses idea too.
I think if I spent have the energy weight training that I do rationaliing why I can not I would be pretty buff.
dietgirl says
May 17, 2010 at 3:38 amLOVE THIS: “When I make an excuse to myself REPEATEDLY it becomes a belief. When I repeat this belief to myself (even subconsciously) it becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy.”
So true. Here’s to ACTION, baby!
Tia says
May 17, 2010 at 4:46 amThis whole process has changed my life Miz.
Acknowledging my excuses.
Literally touching them.
And now to break the habit.
Thank you for this.
May you be blessed as you help so many people.
Michelle@Eatingjourney says
May 17, 2010 at 4:51 am“Your thoughts become your world” is one the edge of my computer screen that’s for sure.
I have made excuse for the past 1 1/2 years to not give up sugar and gluten because I know it’s an emotional crutch. What I need to step back and think about is..why am I making excuses to hurt my body? why am I making excuses to stop listening to my body? why am I making excuses to not harness an attitude of getting fit instead of getting my diet on?
That is what I need to honestly drill through.
Thanks for that. M
jeepjenn says
May 17, 2010 at 5:11 amCarla….You always seem to post what I need, when I need it.
This is my only suggestion, since you seem to have knocked my knees out from under me again 😉
Take the time to sit down and write an action plan using smart goals.
Specific: Goals need to be something specific. Often we set goals that are so loose, it’s nearly impossible to judge whether we hit them or not. For example, a statement like “I will lose weight” is too vague. How will you know if and when you’ve reached your goal? Saying, ” I will lose five pounds this month” is more specific. At the end of the month it will be a simple matter of weights and measures: take your measurements and get on the scale.
Measurable: Goals need to be measurable. For example, many of us want to increase our number of contacts. But, “making new contacts” is an ambiguous statement. A clearer objective is “I will attend four networking events each month and try to connect with one person at each.” It’s a simple, concrete goal. This makes it easy to see if you hit your target.
Achievable: Goals need to be reasonable and achievable. Nearly everyone has tried to drop a few pounds at one time or another. Often their success or failure depends on setting practical goals. Losing 15 pounds in 30 days is unrealistic (unless you’re planning a medical procedure). Losing six to eight pounds in 30 days is reasonable. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are out of reach.
Realistic: Goals need to be realistic. When we’re kids we think we can do anything. As adults we learn that while we can have a lot, we can’t have it all at the same time. It’s important to honestly evaluate yourself. Do you have the ability and commitment to make your dream come true? Or does it need a little adjustment? For example, you may love to play tennis, but do you have the time, talent and commitment to become a pro? Be honest.
Time Framed: Goals need to have a time frame. Having a set amount of time will give your goals structure. For example, many of us want to find a new job or start their own business. Some people spend a lot of time talking about what they want to do, someday. But, without an end date there is no sense of urgency, no reason to take any action today. Having a specific time frame gives you the impetus to get started. It also helps you monitor your progress.
Lastly, look at each of your goals, and, on a scale of one to ten…do you see yourself achieving it? If you score anything a 7 or under, you may need to adjust your goal to make it a plausable, rewarding experience.
Thanks Carla! (for kicking me in the ass when I need it!)
Hannah says
May 17, 2010 at 5:27 amI’ve made rationalizing an olympic sport ;(
Ryan @NoMoreBacon says
May 17, 2010 at 5:28 amI struggle the most with number 2 and am the most successful when I employ number 4.
Planning for me is an amazing solution to so many road blocks in any kind of journey. When I anticipate the thiscouldgowrongs and combat them with the thisishowillfixit, I subconsciously build optimism and an “I Can” attitude.
I also like to use the old football coaches quote. You know, the one about armpits or other stinky body parts that we all have. Anyway, excuses truly do come too naturally at times. The best part is, we really do have a way around them!
Thanks Miz!
Marisa (Loser for Life) says
May 17, 2010 at 5:29 amI have been kinda stagnant lately. Hmmm…you just made me realize that it’s because I have been using way too many excuses/rationalizations to push past it. Thank you for the 5 tips. I am really taking those to heart today! And thanks again for the laugh this morning! You so funny 🙂
Evan says
May 17, 2010 at 5:32 amI’m like you as I’ve gotten into a workout routine an am pretty ok with that.
My loftier dreams are sadly neglected.
I’m printing these tips.
Miz says
May 17, 2010 at 5:35 amlottsa early morning (at least here) thoughts.
HOWEVER
Before I seize that as an EXCUSE not to do my muchloathedcardio I’m off.
Thoughts after 30 minutes of HIIT.
Erica says
May 17, 2010 at 5:39 amHello! Yes- you and tornado should go to the farmers market together! It would be so wonderful for her to see real fresh produce and understand that food is actually grown (vs. magically appearing on the shelves in stores….did you watch Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution? This scared me). Love the tee, love the idea and your plan sounds great. My favorite (and probably the most difficult action item)- 2. I will be honest with myself. I need to work on this one with a few of my goals!
Jules - Big Girl Bombshell says
May 17, 2010 at 5:44 amYes! Yes! Yes! I am all of this. I did participate, and well, you know EXACTLY what my first excuse was. I went to a high horse and tried to find excuses NOT to fully do the exercise, even before I started. My rationalizations were quite irrational and not the full truth. But that was a GREAT lesson for me.
I had my fiance write my excuses on the shirt. THAT was the eye-opener…My personal excuse has always been time, etc but he wrote my BELIEFS about myself, just like you had said above, but I didn’t see them as the excuses. That is why having someone ELSE write the excuses is SO empowering!
My excuses aren’t just about my weight and exercise, it is about everything I truly say I want…job, writing, etc. Between the No Excuses and Fitarella’s What if…My life is doing a 360 and it keeps me moving forward more than anything………..
Joanna Sutter says
May 17, 2010 at 6:05 amSuggestion? Start your book like you do a blog post. Just sit down with an empty screen and do what you do…WRITE! The words will come.
P.S. Where do I buy my advanced copy and if there’s anything I can do to help you with the book tour you know where to find me.
Sagan says
May 17, 2010 at 6:25 amI wasn’t able to make real progress with my most recent emotional eating until I identified that my main problem was FEAR. Mostly of success. My life is so amazing right now and I was just getting scared because things were almost TOO GOOD. When I recognized the fear for what it was, I was better able to embrace everything I’ve been given and tackle my emotional eating issues.
It’s interesting how we need to get to the core of our excuses in order to be able to overcome them! But really, there is no reason to be afraid: we have so much, and we can be and do anything, and we will SUCCEED if we just DO and put our minds to it.
Yum Yucky says
May 17, 2010 at 6:53 amBlargh! I made an excuse for NOT making the tee. I really need to do that. Visualization with props is powerful.
@FitInMyHeart says
May 17, 2010 at 7:03 amWhoa!!! You have a GIFT!!! I am A part of the T-Shirt Movement!!! It Is THIS and YOU who is helping me to MOVE FORWARD!!! Excuses/Rationalizations BE GONE!!!! Here’s To SUCCESS!!! 😉
Love Ya Lots!!!
Nan says
May 17, 2010 at 7:11 amI know you want to write a picture book yet this post is a book screaming to be written.
cammy@tippytoediet says
May 17, 2010 at 8:07 amI might know a little about this writing fear. (says she who has been “stuck” for a year now)
One of the problems I’ve had is opening that blank Word document and feeling a sense of paralysis come over me. I’ve since heard it referred to as “page fright.” So, I’m turning to index cards and notebooks to organize my thoughts. I figure at some point momentum will kick in, and I’ll sort of organically move back to the computer.
Another thing I’m trying to do is to focus on writing FOR ME (you could include Miss T). It’s a beautiful thing to do for both of you, regardless of commercial or critical success.
And then, of course, the trump card: visualize how you’ll feel when you’re finished. 🙂
For what it’s worth, my money’s on YOU.
MizFit says
May 17, 2010 at 8:20 amI have so many thoughts yet am choosing today not to jump in and add.
Ive yammered so much in the post (shocking I realize) that I am simply sitting back.
reading your comments.
rereading your comments.
basking appreciatively in your emails (TRULY. I needed them today).
if you WANT a response here—please to let me know in your comment ….
Karen (KCLAnderson) says
May 17, 2010 at 8:21 amCarla…I first have to thank you for starting the T-shirt movement. Ever since I made my T, I have been exercising MORE! I am kickboxing three days a week and doing kettlebells (isn’t it funny that they’re both “KB”?) twice a week. My kettlebell guy wants to give me an extra day a week if I’ll write some promo materials for him 🙂
Second, I want to share something I wrote on my blog just after Fitbloggin. This comes directly from my blog:
“I had the great fortune to attend two powerful yet unrelated events. The first was a presentation of “In Our Right Minds” by Dale Allen. It’s a one-woman show billed as: “A Celebration of Women, the Sacred Feminine and the Right Brain…Guiding Women to their Strength as Leaders and Leading Men to Strength without Armor.”
It blew me away with new awareness and struck a chord of awareness that I’ve had all along…all at the same time.
There is a lot to take away from Dale’s performance.
Like this: when women shy away from, or avoid doing for themselves, they’re shying away from, or avoiding doing for others. When you “do” for yourself, you “do” for others.
And this: When you model reaching your goals, achievement and success, you empower everyone around you to do the same for themselves.
But perhaps this biggest lesson for me was in listening Dale tell the story of how she came to write and produce her play in the first place.
Early one morning, after a big party in a shoreline town, she walked through the wet grass in her bare feet and sat down on a dock. She described feeling like she was 11 years old. And it came to her that she wanted to write a play, and just like any 11-year-old would, went ahead and did it because 11 year olds do what they want, right? There’s no voice that tells them not to, that it would be stupid, or that it would be a miserable failure. When we’re 11, if we want to draw a picture, we draw one! If we want to sing a song, we sing it! If we want to turn cartwheels, we turn them!
Once the play was written, she contacted a local theater about performing it. Everything started to come together. And when opening night was just a week or so away a VOICE inside her head said, “STOP! Who do you think you are? You can’t do this! You will fail! It will be horrible!”
She said that she understood that the VOICE was trying to protect her. But at the same time she realized that the voice didn’t understand how important putting this play on was to her. And so she began to think of that VOICE as a little child who needed constant reassurance. She took the VOICE by the hand and coaxed it along, telling it that they could do this together. They took little steps together, took deep breaths together, and the play went on! And when the VOICE realized that Dale hadn’t failed or been killed outright, it was able to relax a little and Dale was able to continue on doing her thing…until she decided to take it to the next level. And the VOICE came back! STOP!!!! And Dale explained that she had to do it all over again. It was a little easier the next time because the VOICE trusted Dale more than it did the first time. But it was still difficult. And Dale said that each and every time she decides to take things to the next level, the VOICE is there.
And here’s the thing: no matter what you think you see on the outside of anyone else’s successes or achievements, inside is that VOICE. Everyone has it. No one is immune.
And so what I am starting to see is that a big difference between success and failure is being able to take care of that VOICE. Not “conquering” it, or even “silencing” it. You just need to take care of it, nurture it and make sure that it feels safe”
SO THAT IS MY ADVICE TO YOU. When you hear the VOICE, remember that it needs as much reassurance as you can give it.
debby says
May 17, 2010 at 8:28 amWell, I didn’t do the tee, but your little voice is always in my mind. Yesterday I succeeded at a big (to me) new computer effort, and I will try again this week to figure out how to use Etsy. One little success definitely gives you a little boost of confidence to try another.
Karen (KCLAnderson) says
May 17, 2010 at 8:30 amCarla, first I want to share that doing the t-shirt exercise has been very powerful for me. I am exercising more!! I’ve added two days of kettlebell workouts to my three days of kickboxing (isn’t it funny that they’re both KB?) and my kettlebell guy wants to give me a third day in exchange for me writing some promo materials for him.
Second, I want to share something that I wrote on my blog just after Fitbloggin. This is just as I wrote it then:
“I had the great fortune to attend two powerful yet unrelated events. The first was a presentation of “In Our Right Minds” by Dale Allen. It’s a one-woman show billed as: “A Celebration of Women, the Sacred Feminine and the Right Brain…Guiding Women to their Strength as Leaders and Leading Men to Strength without Armor.”
It blew me away with new awareness and struck a chord of awareness that I’ve had all along…all at the same time.
There is a lot to take away from Dale’s performance.
Like this: when women shy away from, or avoid doing for themselves, they’re shying away from, or avoiding doing for others. When you “do” for yourself, you “do” for others.
And this: When you model reaching your goals, achievement and success, you empower everyone around you to do the same for themselves.
But perhaps this biggest lesson for me was in listening Dale tell the story of how she came to write and produce her play in the first place.
Early one morning, after a big party in a shoreline town, she walked through the wet grass in her bare feet and sat down on a dock. She described feeling like she was 11 years old. And it came to her that she wanted to write a play, and just like any 11-year-old would, went ahead and did it because 11 year olds do what they want, right? There’s no voice that tells them not to, that it would be stupid, or that it would be a miserable failure. When we’re 11, if we want to draw a picture, we draw one! If we want to sing a song, we sing it! If we want to turn cartwheels, we turn them!
Once the play was written, she contacted a local theater about performing it. Everything started to come together. And when opening night was just a week or so away a VOICE inside her head said, “STOP! Who do you think you are? You can’t do this! You will fail! It will be horrible!”
She said that she understood that the VOICE was trying to protect her. But at the same time she realized that the voice didn’t understand how important putting this play on was to her. And so she began to think of that VOICE as a little child who needed constant reassurance. She took the VOICE by the hand and coaxed it along, telling it that they could do this together. They took little steps together, took deep breaths together, and the play went on! And when the VOICE realized that Dale hadn’t failed or been killed outright, it was able to relax a little and Dale was able to continue on doing her thing…until she decided to take it to the next level. And the VOICE came back! STOP!!!! And Dale explained that she had to do it all over again. It was a little easier the next time because the VOICE trusted Dale more than it did the first time. But it was still difficult. And Dale said that each and every time she decides to take things to the next level, the VOICE is there.
And here’s the thing: no matter what you think you see on the outside of anyone else’s successes or achievements, inside is that VOICE. Everyone has it. No one is immune.
And so what I am starting to see is that a big difference between success and failure is being able to take care of that VOICE. Not “conquering” it, or even “silencing” it. You just need to take care of it, nurture it and make sure that it feels safe.”
THIS IS MY ADVICE TO YOU! Take care of the VOICE. Make sure the VOICE feels safe. Understand that, just like any change we want to undertake, we have to practice regularly. The VOICE needs consistent reassurance.
Lori (Finding Radiance) says
May 17, 2010 at 8:37 amThank you for this post. I have been doing some career soul searching this month, and I have a lot of fear. I also think there is a good bit of laziness, too. There are so many options and I worry about picking the wrong one. I worry that the thought of the grass being greener is going to apply and I will wish I hadn’t done a change, which is silly because I have changed careers several times in the last couple decades.
Lots of soul searching to do still. I like to bounce ideas with my hubby over cups of coffee 😀
Gina Fit by 41 Maybe 42 says
May 17, 2010 at 10:02 amI haven’t blogged much in a while; I can’t believe I’ve missed this fantastic No Excuses Tee exercise. Excellent. The B.F. quote is going up in my kitchen right now.
Thanks, MizFit
Shelley B says
May 17, 2010 at 11:51 amI’ve been able to indoctrinate my running into the “no excuses” way of action/thinking – and it’s been working – I’ve not been sitting, practically paralyzed by thought, but have gotten up and ran all by myself, which is huge for me.
Now, I have a book in me as well. Have I written one word? Um, no. Ironically, my best friend sent me a link to a radio interview done by two authors who wrote “Write That Book Already!” – I’m getting more motivated by listening to them debunk excuses. Here’s the link to the book if you’re interested (although this might provide you with another delaying tactic, lol!): http://www.amazon.com/Write-That-Already-Tough-Published/dp/1605501476/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1274118507&sr=1-1
Aubry says
May 17, 2010 at 12:01 pmI wanted to let you know that my book club did this exercise together MizFit.
I can’t wait to share this with them next week.
Is it ok if I print it ok and bring copies with me?
Jody - Fit at 52 says
May 17, 2010 at 12:10 pmRight in line with my fear post today! I wish I had done that post later so I could have linked back to this post from you!
The whole thing here talks to me.. endlessly talks to me… excuses, fears, fears & excuses. Too many “No’s” in my life that lead me back to the fear I tried to conquer & got a No & back to excuses.
I wish I had tips/suggestions but you are helping me way more than I am helping myself. My mind blocks me yet that is an excuse too. I could say to you.. GO FOR IT! YOU ARE SO TALENTED! And I am saying that but then you come back to me about not following my own advice. I agree but I so think you have it in you to do this!
Thx Carla.. you have me thinking once again! Crap, like always! 🙂
messymimi says
May 17, 2010 at 12:21 pmThanks for the reality check.
charlotte says
May 17, 2010 at 2:04 pmI love it! And your book WILL be amazinglyfantastic. Although I totally understnad what you mean about being afraid to start for fear of it not being its absolute best. SO hear you there!
Results Not Typical Girl says
May 17, 2010 at 2:20 pmI read many years ago that character was doing the things you should do, even when no one was looking. That’s how I view my exercise and binge eating. I try to imagine my audience of blog sisters and what they would say to encourage me to make the tough choices and keep going. It’s been empowering and wonderful all at the same time.
Carla – today I did it. 5 days in from 0 exercise and I ran the first mile of my adult life. It was incredible! Thank you for being part of my journey.
Hugs, Kirsten
Miz says
May 17, 2010 at 2:31 pmI read every comment as it comes in and this one choked me up Kirsten. Completely.
Thank you for inviting me along on your journey.
xo xo
(And YES Aubry. Take anything…
Quix says
May 17, 2010 at 3:11 pmWheeee! This is just kinda what I worked through on Friday night (so many minor things under my control making me unhappy yet I wasn’t doing anything about them). With a fresh haircut, a good weekend, and a bunch of plans on my to do list instead whines about why I wasn’t accomplishing things, I feel much better. 🙂
And books are very paralyzing. For some reason I just believe that my first one has to be my piece d’resistance. I know in my HEAD it will be lining the bird cages of some publishing exec after a quick glance (if it even gets that far). But in my heart it has to be the BEST. Le sigh.
Mary Meps says
May 17, 2010 at 3:21 pmIt’s like donning a healthy lifestyle – the writing and creating. One of my writer friends was having the same problem. Her solution to set her egg timer for 50 mins. She does nothing but write. When the time goes off, she’s allowed to go do something else. Less time works, too. It takes longer to finish, but you keep moving forward.
Ie, I distribute my ‘golden’ hours to editing my novel. I have a deadline of early August. I allott smaller increments of time later in the day for other projects – networking, short stories, submissions, etc … Or, I do another round of editing if I’m feeling anxious about it. That one has been winning out lately.
Anyway, like adopting a healthy lifestyle. Set small goals you can succeed at and then go from there. Your writing muscle will start to get stronger. 🙂
JourneyBeyondSurvival says
May 17, 2010 at 3:31 pmI was going to commit to this today. I wanted to do this today. I waited until I could say I had it done.
My life is what it is, and I got the really really important stuff done.
I’m going to keep trying to do those things and-like you-writing is one of them!
Skyler Meine says
May 17, 2010 at 3:32 pmI have been toying with putting up a board in my studio that I make people write their excuses on if they give me an excuse to why the aren’t being successful in their weight loss journey.
Everyone has an excuse. Some just overcome the excuse and get things done. Thanks for the reminder mizfit.
Katdoesdiets says
May 17, 2010 at 4:24 pmI am right with ya. I feel like I am doing well in so many aspects of my life…except my writing.
POD says
May 17, 2010 at 4:40 pmI did not grab a T for I’d need a TeePee for the amount of excuses I’ve been wrought with the past few months. I like your list and have a special feeling about #4.
Diane Fit to the Finish says
May 17, 2010 at 7:22 pmThere are so many good comments here that I can’t add much to this. Fabulous idea and post. There are definitely things in my life I need to move forward on.
Wifey says
May 17, 2010 at 8:25 pmOh, I love this and need to do this myself! Kudos to you! Write that book! I can’t wait to get my autographed copy!
Winks & Smiles,
Wifey
Thea @ I'm a Drama Mama says
May 17, 2010 at 9:51 pmMy shirt was about starting triathlon training. Since I made the shirt, I have picked a training plan and am starting week 2 of said plan.
I have started shopping for the necessary equipment.
I have gotten back in the pool after 20+ years.
I have gotten back on a bike after 15+ years.
The shirt is now hanging on my Motivation Wall and I plan to wear it for the tri…which I’ve already signed up for.
chris says
May 18, 2010 at 1:56 amI can see why the thought of creating a book might be overwhelming…but just remember. It’s not a one time deal. It will undoubtedly evolve as you start and go through it.
So you have an idea…you start putting it together, you put some of it out there for feed back..you tweek it…best way to get over any inertia is to just begin. Begin writing out ideas, begin stashing photos and the like.
Good luck with your book. You are already on your way by just writing this blog post.
Lisa says
May 18, 2010 at 5:23 amI confess I did not make a Tshirt, but I did take a leap of faith this week (that I had been making many excuses about NOT taking).
I have been thinking about working with metal clay for a while now, but going back and forth about it. Metal clay is a clay like substance that after fired in a kiln burns away to be solid fine silver. Well, after my 2yr old nearly broke my nose the other day with his bobbing head, I had a good cry and thought, “nuts I’m going to have to use the money for the kiln for my metal clay to get my nose fixed!” That night numbed by the pain in my nose I ignored all my excuses and ordered the kiln and supplies…
And now, my nose is not broken, and I’ve got this new kiln and clay coming in a few days! Oh what it takes to trust and believe in ourselves sometimes…
Yay Carla! Love this series of posts!
Natalia Burleson says
May 18, 2010 at 6:44 amOh boy, you and Lance have the ability to be spot on with what I need to hear on any given day. You guys are freakin me out!
Having said that, I’m so paralyzed with fear in so many areas of my life. There are so many things I want to do creatively. Two of my excuses that are valid, not enough $$ to do it and not enough space. But, having said that if I reflect on it a little more I realize that if I REALLY, REALLY want to do it I can take care of both those excuses. Make better decisions with my $$ so that I can save or allocate some spending in my creative adventure. AND if I REALLY, REALLY wanted to do it, space be damned, I would lug it out and put it away when done. Am I really going to sit around dreaming about being more creative (making soaps, oils, after shave lotion, laundry det and fabric softener, for a start) when I could be spending that time lugging my stuff out of a storage container in my room? REALLY? Am I doing that? Yup that’s what I’ve been doing!
Thanks so much for this post! Needed it!!!!
xoxox
Brianna says
May 18, 2010 at 8:56 pmJust let me say that I haven’t read any of the above comments, as I’m on bedtime patrol with my popcorn of a daughter . . .
Regarding your book writing – you don’t *have* to start at the beginning when you write! In fact, I usually don’t get to the beginning of things when I write until I’m nearly finished. I find it takes the fear out of the process and it helps my brain get in a good groove to just start where it is and get back to where it needs to be later. Make sense?
Happy writing and happy excuse fighting! – Brianna
Fit Chick in the City says
July 14, 2010 at 5:25 amAmazing post! I really needed to hear this today. I’m bookmarking this post to refer to when I’m looking for more excuses. Thank you for this!