Are These Real Obstacles, or Just Excuses?
In my previous post, I reflected on the obstacles we face on the path toward our goals. Today, I want to ask a deeper question: Are those obstacles truly real—or are they just excuses we’ve created for ourselves?
Often without realizing it, we struggle to be honest with ourselves. Sometimes we chase unrealistic goals and wear ourselves out over something that may never happen. Other times, we continue working on something we don’t even want, simply because we can’t admit that truth to ourselves. In the end, we neither reach the outcome we hoped for, nor feel satisfied with where we are. That road often leads to burnout—a state of deep exhaustion, lack of motivation, physical fatigue, and the mental strain that comes with them.
In some countries, burnout is recognized as a legitimate condition, and people can take extended medical leave to rest and re-evaluate. But in many places, that kind of support is a luxury. So what can we do? We must carve out time for ourselves before things spiral—before depression becomes chronic and we’re forced to go through the motions of life like a ghost. The alternative can be damaging not just physically, but socially and psychologically as well.
Ask yourself honestly: Are you being truthful with yourself about your career? If not, why? Is it the effort required to reach your goals? Fear of failure? Lack of confidence? Are these the reasons you’re hiding the truth from yourself?
Think it through. What’s the worst that can happen? And the best? The worst case might be losing your job—and then not being able to find another one. If that fear is real, then ask yourself why you think you wouldn’t be able to find a new job.
If you feel underqualified, you can work on closing those gaps. If you’re in debt, build a plan that factors that in. If you’re unhappy in your current career, explore other options and start building the skills you need for something new. There are countless online resources and vocational training courses available. If your work feels monotonous, look for ways to improve it, add value, or even just challenge yourself with a side project. If your social environment is toxic, seek out spaces and communities that energize you.
The truth is: You can change everything—if you’re willing to try.
Once you put in that effort, you don’t really have anything to lose. Even in the worst case, you’ve gained perspective. You’ve gathered knowledge and insight that brings you closer to being honest with yourself. And in the best case? New excitement, the joy of accomplishing something meaningful, and maybe even real progress—financially or professionally.
So ask yourself: Why would someone lie to themselves about their career? Think about it carefully. The attitude you choose toward yourself can either carry you beyond your wildest dreams or trap you in a life that feels like a prison.
Either way, the decision is entirely yours.
NOTE: To see the whole How to know yourself serial: How to know yourself – bahadirhancicek
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