It seems that we are all Waiting for something so we can move on in life:
"Waiting to earn more money before starting my business."
"Wait until the day I retire so I can really enjoy life."
Every "wait" is an excuse that can be surpassed today.
The myth that we have to wait for something to happen before we can take another step seems to be invading everyone's lives. This mindset condemns us to a constant cycle of procrastination: everyone seems to be waiting for tomorrow, and when tomorrow comes there will be another tomorrow waiting for us. You can't change your future unless you change yesterday, and the only way to change yesterday is to change today.
Why not make today productive for tomorrow?
4 excuses that include a "waiting"
1) Waiting for more knowledge
Many people seem to be waiting to become experts something before moving on with their lives. They are waiting to gain more knowledge: from writing a book, learning a new language or even making important career decisions.
We learn by doing. The more we do, the more we learn over time. We are faced with real-world scenarios that force us to ask better questions.
Of course, there are exceptions in professions that require specific certifications, such as medicine or engineering. However, for most aspects of life, you can get started without being a specialist.
If we keep waiting until we have “all the knowledge,” we will never move forward or have real experiences.
2) Waiting for more money
“I need more money to start my business,” “Traveling the world will be on my list when I have more income,” are phrases we have all heard or said at some point.
Is it really necessary to wait? The answer is a resounding no. You can start experiencing what you want with what you have now. For example:
- You can experience driving a Ferrari by renting one for 900 euros, instead of buying it.
- Traveling and discovering the world doesn't require millions. Low-cost airlines and budget accommodation platforms make it more accessible than you might imagine.
- Volunteering? You don't have to quit your job; even giving up a few days a month can change lives (including yours).
In essence, it is the experience, not always the possession, that gives us satisfaction.
3) Waiting for more time
“Time is money,” and yet many of us waste it hoping to “have more time.” If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I don’t have time to exercise,” ask yourself this question:
If someone held a gun to your head and told you to find time for that activity, would you do it?
Of course. Actually, the problem is not the lack of time, but the lack of importance that we give to certain activities. Be honest with yourself and set priorities. For example, committing to a task and sharing your progress with someone you trust can motivate you to complete it.
This approach helps us to be more aware of how we use our time and to live more productively.
4) Waiting to believe in myself
Limiting beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “I’m not ready” constantly hold us back. These ideas are the result of years of collecting “evidence” to reinforce them.
What if you started looking for evidence to the contrary? For example, if you think you are not good in social situations, try to remember times when you were good at it. Little by little, your perception will change.
Self-confidence does not come from external sources, but from a positive internal narrative. Challenge those limiting beliefs and install new ones that propel you. This takes time and dedication, but it is worth the effort.
Breaking the cycle of “waiting”
The pattern of “waiting” perpetuates procrastination. Here are ways to counteract it:
- Recognize your excuses: Be honest with yourself about your “expectations.”
- Set small goals: Start with small, manageable tasks.
- Celebrate your victories: Recognize progress, no matter how small.
Taking these actions can help you break the habit of waiting and start taking action. Stopping waiting opens up a world of opportunity. By taking action in the present, you can build a more fulfilling and purposeful future.