shoulda, coulda, woulda

Why do we do the things we do?

I should finish my chemistry unit since absolutely nothing is on TV, yet I still have that TV on.

I could get up and get that glass of water I’m so badly craving instead of just repeating in my head, ‘I’m thirsty.’

I would workout, but this couch is too comfy.

Shoulda.

Coulda.

Woulda.

These three words can seriously slow us down in life.

Why do we allow ourselves to use these words that are really just disguised as excuses?

If we just did what we needed to do without hesitation, then we wouldn’t give ourselves the time to come up with reasons why we shouldn’t be doing it. We’d all be much more successful, productive and efficient.

In a perfect world.

Unfortunately, things do come up that factor into what we accomplish. Things we like may interfere (ex: surprise tickets to a concert) and things we may not like (ex: your computer dying on you as you have a major essay due – true story, happened to me) that lead us to use excuses.

Either way, excuses exist and we use them.

So, is it shameful to admit that you maybe didn’t accomplish as much as you would have liked to this weekend because of other things that seemed more important?

But, in all honesty, who are you really disappointing? And what solutions are out there so we stop making excuses?

1. Make a list.
   Even if you think you’ll remember to do something, unless it’s written down, don’t 100% count on your brain (it’s lovely, but sometimes slips up – maybe it’s making excuses up there, too). Lists not only help you remember, but once written, you can further organize and break into top priority vs. low priority.
2. Set goals.
   Whether daily, weekly, monthly or yearly, they help keep you on track. For me, they help keep me accountable to what I told myself I can do. And don’t be disappointed if you miss a few of your goal deadlines; just make new ones and try to achieve them. Also, be happy that you’re making the effort to write out what you need to do.
3. Be realistic.
   If you know you have to do something, give yourself the time to do it. Because how realistic is it to complete a project that’s work 80% of your mark in one week. Really figure out what needs to be done and when.
4. Get energized and focused.
   A lot of excuses are made because we’re ‘too tired’ or ‘too busy’ to get things done – I know we’ve all made an excuse based on one of those reasons. So get yourself pumped up, even if it’s something you’re not thrilled about doing. An awesome attitude and the right focus makes the world of differences when overcoming excuses.

So next time you should finish that report before the day’s over – just do it! And use those four guidelines above to help you get it done. I know they’ve helped me out when I was more than ready to give up!

Replace the ‘shoulda-coulda-woulda’ with ‘will.’

I will finish my chemistry unit.
I will get that glass of water!
I will workout today.

Then see how many excuses you actually have!

But (there’s always a but), there are some exceptions to the excuse-rule. In certain situations, you can make a few excuses.

Like, when the crazy Canadian weather returns. Then it doesn’t seem necessary to get to the grocery store for a few items. That’s what canned goods are for, right?

When it’s almost May and the weather is still like this – I think an excuse is ok.

What do you do to overcome the ‘should-coulda-woulda’ syndrome?

And please tell me someone out there is at least experiencing some sunshine today 😦