Optimal Living Daily - Personal Development and Self-Improvement 3800: Making Excuses Zaps Your Motivation. So Don’t Do It by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology on Accountability and Action
15 snips
Nov 8, 2025 Explore inspiring true stories of an 11-year-old Ugandan boy and a dedicated Detroit man who defied the odds by refusing to make excuses. These tales highlight how taking responsibility fuels motivation and resilience. Learn about research linking excuses to poor performance and how a shift in mindset can lead to personal success. Practical tips are provided to help break the excuse habit and focus on solutions. Transform your self-narrative and reclaim control over your journey to achievement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
From Goat To Graduate
- 11-year-old James in rural Uganda sold a goat and snuck into the president's compound to ask for a scholarship.
- He later earned two master's degrees and a leadership job by refusing to accept defeat.
Excuses Create A Downward Spiral
- Making excuses correlates with worse performance because it externalizes failure and reduces perceived control.
- That loss of control lowers motivation, which creates a cascading decline in future effort and results.
21-Mile Commute Shows Loyalty
- Detroit's James walked 21 miles to keep his job after his car broke and buses stopped serving his route.
- His persistence drew national attention and offers of help from strangers.