We all use reasons and excuses to explain our behaviour. It’s what we do with each that determines the difference. How we use these words reflects our willingness to accept responsibility. Taking responsibility for the choices you make plays an important role in living a life that reflects who you authentically are and has a direct influence on the quality of your life. So what then is the difference between the two words?
The key difference is that while a reason is merely an explanation, an excuse specifically focuses on justifying a fault.
Reason explained.
- A reason refers to a cause or explanation.
- It explains why someone did something or why something happened.
- A reason is usually logical, rational and strives to be objective.
- When you are giving reasons you explain and take accountability for your actions.
- When referring to a fault – reason implies that fault is recognized.
- It is not given with the intention of saving one’s self but to explain a situation.
- Reasons provide opportunities for change.
Excuse explained.
- An excuse specifically justifies fault.
- It justifies why someone did (or did not do) something or why something happened (or did not).
- Excuses blame or defend actions or happenings.
- When giving an excuse you attempt to put the blame on another person or on circumstances rather than being accountable for your own actions.
- Excuses are usually used with the intent to absolve oneself of accountability.
- Excuses bring productivity to a screeching halt.
In a nutshell – A reason explains and takes responsibility while an excuse justifies or defends and denies responsibility.
The difference between reasons and excuses is also reflected in:
- The results they produce.
- The actions they yield.
- The repercussions and consequences they bring about.
- How an individual is affected by the events that cause each.
We use reasons and excuses because we are convinced that they serve us. In most cases they are the cause of our success or failure. They cause us to thrive or to procrastinate. They develop our potential or murder our creativity and problem solving abilities. How you use reasons and excuses is unique and directly linked to who you authentically are. To effectively manage the use of the two words, therefore requires a fair amount of self-knowledge. A general “do this”, “consider that” approach is usually only effective in the short term.
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