Excuse-Making: A Really Bad Habit

I am always struck by people’s need to … make excuses.

A QBQ, Inc. client was two months overdue on paying an invoice. So, our team sent him a nice email asking about it. Here’s his return note:

“Sorry for my delay in responding. I just got back from a 2-week vacation.”

Two comments:

1. Payment was due 60 days ago.
2. Does a vendor waiting for payment care where a non-paying customer has been the last 14 days?! 

Now, understand that this client of ours is genuinely a great person overall. He wanted QBQ! training for his team, so Kristin flew to his location and held a QBQ! workshop for his entire staff.

And it went great. 

Yet, the human desire to “explain and excuse” our actions away is not only strong, it can also be very habit-forming—meaning it is not easy to stop.

How about this: “So sorry I haven’t gotten this invoice processed. No excuses. We’ll cut a check today.”

Sort of like when we return someone’s phone call in an untimely manner. Instead of immediately stating where we were or how busy we are, how about, “I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. How can I help?”

So simple, so accountable. 👏🏻

One area in which we humans often make excuses is when we are tardy for a meeting or event. I once heard this advice: Never ever arrive late with a Starbucks drink in your hand while blaming traffic. It’s just too revealing. 😆

Wouldn’t honesty be better? Something like this: “So sorry I’m late. I got here as soon as I wanted to!”

Go ahead, enjoy the humor, laugh a little. 😅

Meanwhile ……

Excuse-making is a trap. Do you fall into it?

If so, is it a habit you’d like to break?

What’s the cost in relationships when excuses are made?

Remember, reading and re-reading the QBQ! book is an outstanding way to cease and desist in the making of excuses, which truly makes me a better person. Grab a copy today right here and, of course, one for a friend who will thank you later. 😉