This phrase strikes a chord because it speaks to a mindset, not just a financial reality. It’s not about the amount of money someone has in their bank account but about how they approach life’s challenges and opportunities. The difference between finding a way and finding an excuse can determine not just financial success but success in every area of life.
The Mindset of Finding a Way
Successful people—whether financially rich or not—share a common trait: resourcefulness. They see obstacles as puzzles to solve, not dead ends. When faced with challenges, they ask, “How can I overcome this?” rather than declaring, “It can’t be done.”
This mindset involves:
- Belief in Possibility:
People who succeed don’t accept limits at face value. They believe there’s always a way forward, even if it’s not immediately visible. - Taking Responsibility:
Instead of blaming circumstances, they own their outcomes. If something isn’t working, they figure out what they can do to change it. - Action-Oriented Thinking:
Finding a way means taking action, even when the path is unclear. Successful people understand that clarity often comes from movement, not sitting idle.
The Trap of Finding an Excuse
On the other hand, people who remain stuck—financially or otherwise—often default to excuses. These excuses might feel valid in the moment, but they ultimately serve as barriers to progress. Common excuses include:
- “I don’t have enough time.”
- “I wasn’t born into wealth.”
- “I don’t have the right skills.”
While these statements may reflect real challenges, they don’t have to be final. The difference lies in whether a person uses these as reasons to stop or as reasons to find creative solutions.
Breaking Down the Excuse Mindset
Finding excuses often stems from fear, comfort, or a lack of belief in personal agency. To shift this mindset:
- Challenge Your Excuses:
Ask yourself, “Is this truly impossible, or am I just afraid of failing?” Most excuses crumble under honest scrutiny. - Reframe Obstacles as Opportunities:
Every excuse is an opportunity in disguise. If you lack time, learn time management. If you lack skills, commit to learning. If you lack resources, find alternative ways to start small. - Surround Yourself with Doers:
Excuses thrive in environments of negativity and complacency. Surround yourself with people who inspire action and solutions, and you’ll start to see possibilities instead of roadblocks.
Examples of “Finding a Way”
- Sarah Blakely (Founder of Spanx):
With just $5,000 in savings and no formal fashion background, she revolutionized women’s fashion by solving a problem no one else had addressed. Her tenacity and resourcefulness led her to become one of the youngest female self-made billionaires. - Oprah Winfrey:
Born into poverty and facing significant challenges, Oprah didn’t allow her circumstances to define her future. She used her struggles as fuel to build an empire that inspires millions.
Both of these individuals faced the same barriers that could have easily led to excuses. But they found a way.
The Wealth of Resourcefulness
Being “rich” isn’t just about money—it’s about wealth in mindset, adaptability, and persistence. Rich thinkers:
- Look for solutions instead of focusing on problems.
- Invest in themselves by learning and growing.
- See failure as a stepping stone, not a final verdict.
In contrast, broke thinkers often see challenges as insurmountable, failing to realize that the true limitation lies in their mindset.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Paths
The difference between finding a way and finding an excuse boils down to choice. Every person has the potential to succeed, but success requires commitment, effort, and the willingness to push past excuses.
When faced with a challenge, ask yourself:
- Am I making excuses, or am I finding solutions?
- What can I do right now with what I have?
Life will always present obstacles, but the richest rewards go to those who find a way to overcome them. Choose to be the person who rises, adapts, and perseveres. The only thing standing between you and success is your mindset.
