I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the gap between what we’re capable of and what we actually get done. As someone who’s kept a daily running streak since August 29, 2017, I know how easy it is to let excuses creep in—even on the days when I’d rather roll over and hit snooze.

We all tell ourselves stories about why we’re not as productive as we could be. The twist? Most of them aren’t facts—they’re just comfortable lies that keep us stuck. Today I want to call out the top five I see (and have used myself) and talk about a better way forward. Not with shame, but with hope and practical steps. Because growth happens in the messy middle, and there’s grace for the journey.

1. “I don’t have enough time” / “I’m too busy.” Everyone—whether you’re running a company, leading HR initiatives, or juggling family—gets the same 24 hours. It doesn’t change based on your bank account or title. The real question isn’t “Do I have enough time?” but “Am I spending it on what actually moves me toward my goals?”

Too often we’re distracted by the digital pull: endless scrolls, notifications, or “quick” videos. Sit down this week and track just one day honestly. You’ll likely find pockets of time. The body and mind thrive on intentional choices, not constant busyness.

2. “I’m too tired.” My first question is always, why? Many folks go to bed at a reasonable hour Sunday through Thursday and get up on time Monday through Friday, but throw all this out the window on the weekend… and then they lack energy on Monday morning. The body loves consistency—same bedtime, seven days a week, even on vacations.

Even if you remain consistent, it is impossible to get a solid night of sleep every single night. You’re human. When you don’t sleep well, extend yourself grace. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s stewardship. Protect your sleep like the valuable resource it is. A simple evening wind-down routine can change everything. When I prioritize consistent rest, I show up better for coaching clients and my own goals.

3. “It’s not my job / responsibility” (or blaming others). I once heard Gary Vaynerchuk say that taking full responsibility for everything makes life so much easier. Is everything your fault? Of course not. But blaming the boss, traffic, the economy, or “the system” steals your energy.

In teams I coach, the shift happens when someone says, “What can I do to help?” instead of pointing fingers. Complaining never built a thriving culture or a successful career. Take ownership, focus on solutions, and watch momentum build.

4. “I’m not motivated / waiting for the right moment or inspiration.” Here’s the hard truth: What if it never comes? What if motivation stays hidden and the “perfect” time keeps slipping away? I lived this—always waiting for the next stage: high school, college, marriage, kids leaving home. Life keeps moving whether we’re ready or not.

You can’t outsource motivation to someone else. It has to come from inside—a decision to show up anyway. Start small. Action often sparks the feeling, not the other way around. And remember, we’re called to work heartily as for the Lord (Colossians 3:23), not just when we feel like it. That perspective has carried me through many low-motivation mornings.

5. “I’ll do it tomorrow” (classic procrastination). No, you won’t. If you put it off today, tomorrow becomes the same story—next week, next month, next year. This one ties back to everything above: ownership, consistency, and internal drive.

You won’t build that consistent sleep habit until you start tonight. You won’t write the book, land the dream role, or create great content until you begin—even if it’s messy. Just start. Even if you suck at first. Progress beats perfection every time.

Friends, I share this not because I’ve mastered it all, but because I’m still in it with you. We serve a God who redeems our weak starts and multiplies faithful steps. The goal isn’t flawless productivity—it’s becoming more like the people He created us to be: purposeful, present, and impactful.

This week, pick one excuse that’s been loud in your life. Name it. Then take one small action against it. Track how it feels.

I’d love to hear from you—which one hits home, and what’s your first step? Reply and let’s encourage each other.

Here’s to showing up with grace and grit,

Mark Struczewski
Mister Productivity