No Excuses! by Brian Tracy (B1 Level)

ULTIMATE READING

Teacher Ignacio Chávez

7/26/20252 min read

person in swimming goggles in water
person in swimming goggles in water

No Excuses! is a self-help book that teaches us how to reach our goals and become more successful. The main idea of the book is simple but powerful: Self-discipline is the key to success in every part of life — work, health, money, and relationships.

Brian Tracy explains that many people fail not because they aren’t smart or talented, but because they make too many excuses. They say things like “I’m too tired,” “It’s too hard,” or “I don’t have time.” But if we want to change our life, we need to take responsibility and stop blaming others or our situation.

1. Self-discipline is everything

Discipline helps you do what is right, not what is easy. It means making good choices, working hard, and staying focused, even when you don’t feel like it.

“Self-discipline is the ability to do what you should do, when you should do it, whether you feel like it or not.”

2. No more excuses

We all have reasons not to act. But excuses hold us back. Tracy says success starts when we stop making excuses and start doing what needs to be done — now.

“The price of success must be paid in full, in advance.”

3. Do first things first

Always do your most important and difficult tasks first. This gives you energy and confidence. Brian calls this idea "Eat That Frog" — if you do the hardest thing in the morning, the rest of the day is easier.

“Successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do.”

4. Set goals and stay focused

Know what you want in life. Write down your goals and make a clear plan. Review your goals every day and work towards them step by step.

“Clarity is the starting point of success.”

5. Never stop learning or improving

Read books, take courses, ask questions, and always try to get better. Personal growth is a lifelong journey.

“Your life only gets better when you get better.”

Imagine you want to get fit. You don’t wait until you feel motivated. You start today. You wake up early, exercise a little every day, and eat better. In one month, you feel stronger. That’s how self-discipline works — small steps every day lead to big results.

In No Excuses!, Brian Tracy shows us that we are stronger than we think. We don’t need to be perfect, but we must be disciplined and consistent. If you stop making excuses and take action every day, success is possible for anyone — including you.

“With self-discipline, all things are possible. Without it, nothing is.”