We all know that taking care of ourselves is important, but how many of us actually do it?
Whether it’s eating a meal that includes vegetables, peeling ourselves off the sofa to do some exercise, or even doing some meditation or getting out in nature to clear our minds, a lot of us are terrible at looking after our health. Doing so pays dividends in both the short and long term, but for those who find it all to be too much effort, they’ve got plenty of excuses up their sleeves for why it’s just not possible. If you’ve said any of these things yourself, it might be time to start taking ownership and change your life for the better.
1. “I don’t have enough time.”
One of the most common excuses is feeling too busy to focus on health. Packed schedules can make it seem impossible to find time for exercise, meal prep, or self-care. The truth is, health doesn’t have to require hours every day. Short, effective workouts or quick, nutritious meals can make a big difference. Prioritising even small efforts can help create a healthier balance without overhauling your routine.
2. “It’s too expensive to be healthy.”
Many people believe that eating well or staying fit requires expensive gym memberships, organic food, or costly programs. Sadly, this is a misconception that often keeps them from trying. The real truth is that health doesn’t have to break the bank. Home workouts, budget-friendly healthy recipes, and small lifestyle changes can be just as effective as costly alternatives. The investment is in your well-being, not your wallet.
3. “I’m too tired.”
Exhaustion can make even small tasks feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to use tiredness as a reason to skip healthy habits. But neglecting health can create a cycle of fatigue that’s hard to break. Often, starting small—like taking a brisk walk or eating more nutrient-rich foods—can actually boost your energy levels over time. Investing in your health helps combat the tiredness you’re trying to avoid.
4. “I’ll start tomorrow.”
Procrastination is a sneaky excuse that delays progress indefinitely. The idea of starting tomorrow often feels reassuring, but rarely turns into action. The key is to start small today. Even a single healthy choice, like drinking more water or stretching for a few minutes, creates momentum. Building on these small steps makes tomorrow feel less daunting.
5. “I don’t know where to start.”
Feeling overwhelmed by information or unsure of what’s right for you can lead to inaction. When you don’t have a clear plan, it’s easier to avoid starting altogether. Focus on one simple change at a time. Whether it’s swapping sugary drinks for water or adding a short walk to your day, starting somewhere is better than doing nothing.
6. “I’ve tried before and failed.”
Past failures can make it hard to believe future efforts will succeed, and that mindset often leads to giving up before even trying again. Every attempt teaches you something about what works and what doesn’t. Instead of seeing failure as the end, view it as a learning experience that helps refine your approach.
7. “I’m too old to change now.”
Some people believe that after a certain age, focusing on health doesn’t make a difference. This excuse often stems from the fear that it’s too late to see results. In reality, healthy changes benefit you at any age. Whether it’s improving mobility, boosting energy, or preventing illness, small adjustments can lead to noticeable improvements in how you feel.
8. “Healthy food doesn’t taste good.”
The misconception that nutritious food is bland or boring keeps many people stuck in unhealthy eating habits. They believe it’s true because they haven’t explored every available option (or many at all). Experimenting with spices, herbs, and different cooking techniques can make healthy meals delicious and satisfying. Finding recipes that excite your taste buds can turn eating well into an enjoyable experience.
9. “I don’t see results fast enough.”
When progress feels slow, it’s easy to get discouraged and stop trying. Many expect instant results, which rarely align with how long it takes to build lasting habits. Shifting your focus to how you feel, rather than quick results, can help keep you motivated. Energy levels, sleep quality, or even mood improvements are often the first signs of progress.
10. “I don’t like exercising.”
Not everyone enjoys traditional workouts, and this can make exercise feel like a chore. The excuse often comes from associating fitness with specific activities that don’t appeal to you. Exploring other options, like dancing, hiking, or yoga, can help you find an activity you genuinely enjoy. When exercise feels fun, it’s easier to make it a regular part of your life.
11. “I can’t stay consistent.”
Many people struggle with maintaining new habits, leading to frustration and the belief that it’s not worth trying. Consistency often feels unattainable when goals are too big. Breaking your goals into smaller, more manageable steps makes consistency easier. Celebrating small wins along the way keeps you motivated and reinforces your efforts.
12. “I don’t have anyone to support me.”
Going it alone can feel daunting, especially when making significant lifestyle changes. Without encouragement, it’s tempting to give up when things get tough. Getting support from friends, family, or online communities can make all the difference. Sharing your goals with someone who cheers you on creates accountability and makes the journey less isolating.
13. “I’m too busy taking care of other people.”
Putting everyone else first is a common excuse, especially for parents or caregivers. It’s easy to feel like there’s no time left for yourself when you’re focused on everyone else’s needs. Prioritising your health sets an example and ensures you have the energy to care for other people . Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup—taking care of yourself benefits everyone around you.
14. “It’s just how I’ve always been.”
Some people believe their habits or lifestyles are too ingrained to change. They say this because they’re comfortable with the status quo, even if it’s not serving them well. Change is possible at any point. Small, gradual steps can help you shift old patterns and create new ones that support your health. It’s never too late to rewrite your story.
15. “I’ll focus on my health when things settle down.”
Waiting for the “perfect time” is a common excuse that often results in endless delays. Life is rarely calm or predictable, and putting off health until things stabilise can mean it never becomes a priority. Starting during busy or chaotic times shows you can adapt and make health part of your routine, no matter what’s happening. Taking even small steps now helps you build habits that last.
