When things get tough, it’s really easy to make excuses. You may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and burnt out. However, certain excuses will get you nowhere. These can make you look bad in front of your boss and colleagues, and also cause even less motivation for yourself. It’s important in the work place to voice your concerns, but in a way that is professional.

In her article, Jane Burnett critiques some of the most common excuses people make when the going gets tough. She offers some reasons why these don’t shed you in the best light at work, and what to do instead.

• “I can’t deal with this.”: All this does is show that you’re giving up, and that you have no solutions to offer. Burnett recommends offering something you can do if you really aren’t able to do something. However, saying a sentence as finite as this will never show your professionalism and will make you appear to have a bad attitude.
• “I don’t have time.”: Here’s the thing; just about all professionals feel like they don’t have time to complete every single task on their plate. That’s why prioritization is so important. This sentence will only cause your colleagues to roll their eyes at you, since they all feel the same way but are managing to make it through. If you’re struggling, ask you supervisor for guidance on what tasks to prioritize.
• “That’s not my job.”: While it may be true, saying this is only going to make you appear lazy and entitled. If it in fact isn’t your job, ask for some guidance but don’t flat out refuse to participate. Supervisors and colleagues want to know that you’re flexible and adaptable, and that you’re willing to learn more duties. How else will you grow in your role?

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