Excuses Begone!: How to Change Lifelong, Self-Defeating Thinking Habits (Hardcover)

~ Dr. Wayne W. Dyer (Author)
Key Phrases: changing old thinking habits, excuse catalog, mind viruses, New Way of Looking, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Tao Te Ching (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Within the pages of this transformational book, Dr. Wayne W. Dyer reveals how to change the self-defeating thinking patterns that have prevented you from living at the highest levels of success, happiness, and health. Even though you may know what to think, actually changing those thinking habits that have been with you since childhood might be somewhat challenging.

If I changed, it would create family dramas . . . I’m too old or too young . . . I’m far too busy and tired . . . I can’t afford the things I truly want . . . It would be very difficult for me to do things differently . . . and I’ve always been this way . . . may all seem to be true, but they’re in fact just excuses. So the business of modifying habituated thinking patterns really comes down to tossing out the same tired old excuses and examining your beliefs in a new and truthful light.

In this groundbreaking work, Wayne presents a compendium of conscious and subconscious crutches employed by virtually everyone, along with ways to cast them aside once and for all. You’ll learn to apply specific questions to any excuse, and then proceed through the steps of a new paradigm. The old, habituated ways of thinking will melt away as you experience the absurdity of hanging on to them.

You’ll ultimately realize that there are no excuses worth defending, ever, even if they’ve always been part of your life—and the joy of releasing them will resonate throughout your very being. When you eliminate the need to explain your shortcomings or failures, you’ll awaken to the life of your dreams.

 

Excuses . . . Begone!

 

About the Author

Dr. Wayne W. Dyer is an internationally renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development. He is the author of more than 30 books, has created numerous audio programs and videos, and has appeared on thousands of television and radio shows. Wayne holds a doctorate in educational counseling from Wayne State University and was an associate professor at St. John’s University in New York.

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Product Details Hardcover: 288 pages Publisher: Hay House (May 26, 2009) Language: English ISBN-10: 1401921736 ISBN-13: 978-1401921736 Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (123 customer reviews) Amazon.com Sales Rank: #597 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books) Popular in these categories: (What's this?) #10 in  Books > Religion & Spirituality > Spirituality > Personal Transformation #20 in  Books > Health, Mind & Body > Self-Help > Personal Transformation #20 in  Books > Health, Mind & Body > Self-Help > Motivational

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Front Cover | Front Flap | Table of Contents | First Pages | Back Flap | Back Cover | Surprise Me!

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Inside This Book (learn more)

Key Phrases - Statistically Improbable Phrases (SIPs): (learn more)
changing old thinking habits, excuse catalog, mind viruses, elevate your life, excuse categories, excuse patterns, vibrational match, habitual mind, habituated thinking, payoff system, habituated way, mental crutches, universal cooperation

Key Phrases - Capitalized Phrases (CAPs): (learn more)
New Way of Looking, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Tao Te Ching, The Seventh Question, The Second Question, The First Question, Carl Jung, Henry David Thoreau, The Fourth Question, Father's Day, The Sixth Principle, The Tonight Show, The First Principle, Thich Nhat Hanh, Law of Attraction, The Fourth Principle, The Third Question, The Sixth Question, The Seventh Principle, The Second Principle, Thomas Troward, The Biology of Belief, Martin Luther King

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Front Cover | Front Flap | Table of Contents | First Pages | Back Flap | Back Cover | Surprise Me!

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	90% buy the item featured on this page: Excuses Begone!: How to Change Lifelong, Self-Defeating Thinking Habits 4.2 out of 5 stars (123) $16.47
	3% buy Change Your Thoughts - Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao 4.3 out of 5 stars (236) $11.53
	2% buy The Power of Intention 4.2 out of 5 stars (301) $7.29
	2% buy The Biology of Belief: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter, & Miracles 4.2 out of 5 stars (297) $15.83

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Customer Reviews

123 Reviews 5 star:  (85) 4 star:  (10) 3 star:  (9) 2 star:  (6) 1 star:  (13)           Average Customer Review 4.2 out of 5 stars (123 customer reviews)		Share your thoughts with other customers:
Most Helpful Customer Reviews 204 of 218 people found the following review helpful: 5.0 out of 5 stars No more excuses: this will blow your "habitual mind", May 26, 2009 By  Susan Schenck "Author of The Live Food Factor... (San Diego, CA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)    I have read most of Wayne's books, and this was one of the better ones. I used a highlighter on many areas of the book: I love Wayne's style of intertwining great philosophical quotes, anecdotes and personal stories to illustrate his points. The book starts out citing compelling science and studies, including Bruce Lipton's research proving that genes are far from destiny, and that our beliefs influence even our genes. This is truly the foundation for a "no excuses" paradigm. Wayne delves into the concept of memes, or mind viruses and explains how these are passed on to people like cold viruses. Next, 18 typical excuses are presented (many of these solicited from his readers). It will be difficult, risky, take too long, create family drama; I don't deserve it; it's against my nature; I can't afford it (surely a popular one today!); no one will help me; it's not happened before; I'm not strong/smart enough; I'm too old/too young; the rules/laws won't let me; it's too big; I don't have the energy/time; it's in my family history; I'm afraid. I was disappointed that my favorite excuse "I'll do it later" wasn't listed, although it was addressed indirectly in various parts of the book, especially in the "commitment to overcoming the inertia" part. The second section seven contains principles for overcoming excuses: awareness, alignment, now, contemplation (with a very powerful quote from Aristotle--"Contemplation is the highest form of activity"), willingness, passion and compassion. The third section promotes a new way of viewing excuses, creating a paradigm shift. This includes asking yourself six questions, starting out with "Is it true?" Where did the excuse come from? What is the payoff?" These are very reminiscent of Bryon Katie except that instead of undoing beliefs, you are undoing excuses and eradicating them from your subconscious mind (which Wayne argues need not be beneath your consciousness, and in fact renames as the "habitual mind"). I see people all the time using these excuses to avoid eating a better diet of more raw foods: It will create family drama; I don't have the time to fix good food; I don't have the money to buy fresh produce." My father's excuse was, "I am too old." Unfortunately, he died of cancer two years after using that excuse! I am confident that this book will inspire people to take a new look at their habitual mind patterns, breaking free to move on to their highest potential! 213 of 250 people found the following review helpful: 1.0 out of 5 stars More trivial, random thoughts..., June 28, 2009 By  D. Fraser - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)    I have been a fan of Dyer, and his earlier works still hold a place on my bookshelf. But his latest "how-to" book is just a collection of his rambling thoughts and ideas, free associations or "Channeling" as he refers to it as. Nothing "how-to" between the covers! I read this book and also watched his PBS segment (infomercial) and he tells the audience that all he does is sit and write- letting the thoughts emerge and take form on paper, I believe he does use the word "channeling"- problem is, he packages it as a "self-help" how-to book. Sure, there are those who will benefit by simply putting a label on their behavior, and by doing so recognize their behaviors impact on their life and some folks may be able to reach down and grab their bootstraps and get a hold of their situation. But most people I believe need a stronger blueprint for change- and Dyer no longer offers that in his latest series of "self-help" works. I would categorize Dyers book as "personal philosophy" in the abstract, and not a clear concrete self-help how-to book as packaged. Too bad his work has degenerated to this level- and only because he packages it as self-help. In my opinion, this book is nothing more than a collection of rambling free association that Dyer spits out while in one of his "trances". I am also disappointed that Dyer now aligns himself with the "Secret" (check out Newsweeks expose of that book), "Dr." Joe Vitale (see below about "doctor" Joe Vitale, the fake doctor of 'metaphysics'), and the "teachings of Abraham" (spiritual guide who channels through a woman- large following and mega bucks to the "channeler"- need I say more?). Dyer's work completely lacks a practitioner basis and is clearly in the realm of metaphysics- it is only thoughts and ideas totally unsupported and not reliable. It is also a rehash of all his other stuff- and you get the feeling this book is just to keep the cash flowing. I obviously would not recommend anyone buy this book- if you must, I suggest wait a bit and buy a used copy- there will be many for sale! (I gave my copy away.) Ahh, and just a quick comment about some of the 5 star reviewers- I am always a bit suspicious when a reviewer reads a book that just came out days before, and then runs to give it a 5 star review proclaiming the book "changed" their lives... Sure, Dyer's book can be an inspiration for many, but ease up on the false platitudes, such as going so far as claiming the book "changed" their life as soon as they put the book down- it offers false hope, like it did for the droves of people who stood in line at the bookstore fighting over a copy of the "magical" 'The Secret' after Oprah hawked the book on her show a couple times... From wiki on "Dr." Joe Vitale, who Dr. Dyer now openly aligns himself with in his latest books and PBS infomercials: "Joe Vitale attended Niles McKinley High School in Ohio. After graduation he attended Kent State University, majoring in public relations and journalism, but failed to graduate. He holds an unaccredited doctorate in metaphysical science. He received this degree from the University of Metaphysics in Sedona, Arizona,[3] that offers non-secular Ministerial higher education in Holistic, New Thought Metaphysics and Holistic Ministry. He was awarded an honorary doctorate, based on his books, from Belford University,[3] which offers unaccredited degrees." 9 of 10 people found the following review helpful: 4.0 out of 5 stars An excuse-free Life!, July 15, 2009 By  Colleen Messina (New York, NY USA) - See all my reviews I have been a fan of Wayne W. Dyer for many years, and his new book, "Excuses Begone" is refreshing and comforting. He gently reminds me that I have the power to bring myself into harmony with who I really am - a being that has infinite possibilities of experiencing great success, great health and unlimited happiness. Dyer continues to inspire me with his writing and insight. Wayne W. Dyer was one of the first authors whom I felt a connection with as I dove into self discovery. If you enjoy Wayne W. Dyer, definitely check out authors, Ariel & Shya Kane. In their books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment & How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, I have discovered an ease within myself that is lasting. The Kanes have helped me discover that Enlightenment is a skill set, not a destination. And it's available right now! It's hard to make excuses when you're living in the moment!		Ad feedback   Most Recent Customer Reviews 5.0 out of 5 stars Now my Friends REALLY listen! I knew I had to have this book after seeing Dr Dyer on PBS! I always try to be optimistic but now I notice how much more people are very negative and I counter their negativity... Read more Published 4 days ago by M. J. Kenny 5.0 out of 5 stars You can change any excuse pattern Excuses Begone! is entrenched in the lessons taught by Lao Tzu, psychologists William James and Abraham Maslow and Theologian Thomas Troward, in addition to the work of... Read more Published 12 days ago by Colin Lewis 5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent advice for those wanting positive change in their lives. Excuses Be Gone is a wonerful resouce that has saved my relationship. Anyone serious about changing their outlook on life and becoming a whole person that we all should be, this... Read more Published 14 days ago by Stephen E. Labuda, Jr. 5.0 out of 5 stars Newest and Best Book This is Dr. Dyer's finest, finest work! If you want to start the wheels of change turning please award yourself this audiobook. Read more Published 14 days ago by Visa Gift Card 5.0 out of 5 stars Dyer at His Best! Wayne Dyer has a rare gift; not only is he an incredible speaker, but a prolific writer as well. Having read most of his previous books, I was concerned this one might suffer from... Read more Published 17 days ago by Vincent Harris 1.0 out of 5 stars He says his God is the Great Tao This is the first book I've purchased by Dr. Dyer. I didn't get past the 2nd page of the introduction. Read more Published 18 days ago by Talmeeda 4.0 out of 5 stars No excuses for not reading it! In my opinion "Excuses Begone!" is one of the best books by Wayne W. Dyer. The information is well organized. His advices are very useful. Read more Published 19 days ago by M. C. Tortajada 5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!! This is one of the most beautiful and powerful books I have read in a long time. One of Dr Dyer's best for sure. Read more Published 19 days ago by I. E. Hernandez 1.0 out of 5 stars Kewpie doll spouts feelgood catchphrases I challenge any one of his fans to do a simple exercise. Sit down and watch one of your favorite hour-or-more long video segments of the good Dr. Read more Published 20 days ago by K. Doyle 5.0 out of 5 stars A book to read over and over! Thoughtful and insightful. Gives you food for thought. You need to read it several times. Published 23 days ago by S. J. Bozung Search Customer Reviews Only search this product's reviews

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 288 pages
• Publisher: Hay House (May 26, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1401921736
• ISBN-13: 978-1401921736
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (123 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #597 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

  Popular in these categories: (What's this?)

  #10 in	Books > Religion & Spirituality > Spirituality > Personal Transformation
  #20 in	Books > Health, Mind & Body > Self-Help > Personal Transformation
  #20 in	Books > Health, Mind & Body > Self-Help > Motivational

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

204 of 218 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars No more excuses: this will blow your "habitual mind", May 26, 2009

By	Susan Schenck "Author of The Live Food Factor... (San Diego, CA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)

I have read most of Wayne's books, and this was one of the better ones. I used a highlighter on many areas of the book: I love Wayne's style of intertwining great philosophical quotes, anecdotes and personal stories to illustrate his points.

The book starts out citing compelling science and studies, including Bruce Lipton's research proving that genes are far from destiny, and that our beliefs influence even our genes. This is truly the foundation for a "no excuses" paradigm. Wayne delves into the concept of memes, or mind viruses and explains how these are passed on to people like cold viruses.

Next, 18 typical excuses are presented (many of these solicited from his readers). It will be difficult, risky, take too long, create family drama; I don't deserve it; it's against my nature; I can't afford it (surely a popular one today!); no one will help me; it's not happened before; I'm not strong/smart enough; I'm too old/too young; the rules/laws won't let me; it's too big; I don't have the energy/time; it's in my family history; I'm afraid. I was disappointed that my favorite excuse "I'll do it later" wasn't listed, although it was addressed indirectly in various parts of the book, especially in the "commitment to overcoming the inertia" part.

The second section seven contains principles for overcoming excuses: awareness, alignment, now, contemplation (with a very powerful quote from Aristotle--"Contemplation is the highest form of activity"), willingness, passion and compassion.

The third section promotes a new way of viewing excuses, creating a paradigm shift. This includes asking yourself six questions, starting out with "Is it true?" Where did the excuse come from? What is the payoff?" These are very reminiscent of Bryon Katie except that instead of undoing beliefs, you are undoing excuses and eradicating them from your subconscious mind (which Wayne argues need not be beneath your consciousness, and in fact renames as the "habitual mind").

I see people all the time using these excuses to avoid eating a better diet of more raw foods: It will create family drama; I don't have the time to fix good food; I don't have the money to buy fresh produce." My father's excuse was, "I am too old." Unfortunately, he died of cancer two years after using that excuse!

I am confident that this book will inspire people to take a new look at their habitual mind patterns, breaking free to move on to their highest potential!

213 of 250 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars More trivial, random thoughts..., June 28, 2009

By	D. Fraser - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I have been a fan of Dyer, and his earlier works still hold a place on my bookshelf. But his latest "how-to" book is just a collection of his rambling thoughts and ideas, free associations or "Channeling" as he refers to it as. Nothing "how-to" between the covers! I read this book and also watched his PBS segment (infomercial) and he tells the audience that all he does is sit and write- letting the thoughts emerge and take form on paper, I believe he does use the word "channeling"- problem is, he packages it as a "self-help" how-to book. Sure, there are those who will benefit by simply putting a label on their behavior, and by doing so recognize their behaviors impact on their life and some folks may be able to reach down and grab their bootstraps and get a hold of their situation. But most people I believe need a stronger blueprint for change- and Dyer no longer offers that in his latest series of "self-help" works. I would categorize Dyers book as "personal philosophy" in the abstract, and not a clear concrete self-help how-to book as packaged. Too bad his work has degenerated to this level- and only because he packages it as self-help. In my opinion, this book is nothing more than a collection of rambling free association that Dyer spits out while in one of his "trances".

I am also disappointed that Dyer now aligns himself with the "Secret" (check out Newsweeks expose of that book), "Dr." Joe Vitale (see below about "doctor" Joe Vitale, the fake doctor of 'metaphysics'), and the "teachings of Abraham" (spiritual guide who channels through a woman- large following and mega bucks to the "channeler"- need I say more?). Dyer's work completely lacks a practitioner basis and is clearly in the realm of metaphysics- it is only thoughts and ideas totally unsupported and not reliable. It is also a rehash of all his other stuff- and you get the feeling this book is just to keep the cash flowing.

I obviously would not recommend anyone buy this book- if you must, I suggest wait a bit and buy a used copy- there will be many for sale! (I gave my copy away.)

Ahh, and just a quick comment about some of the 5 star reviewers- I am always a bit suspicious when a reviewer reads a book that just came out days before, and then runs to give it a 5 star review proclaiming the book "changed" their lives... Sure, Dyer's book can be an inspiration for many, but ease up on the false platitudes, such as going so far as claiming the book "changed" their life as soon as they put the book down- it offers false hope, like it did for the droves of people who stood in line at the bookstore fighting over a copy of the "magical" 'The Secret' after Oprah hawked the book on her show a couple times...

From wiki on "Dr." Joe Vitale, who Dr. Dyer now openly aligns himself with in his latest books and PBS infomercials:

"Joe Vitale attended Niles McKinley High School in Ohio. After graduation he attended Kent State University, majoring in public relations and journalism, but failed to graduate. He holds an unaccredited doctorate in metaphysical science. He received this degree from the University of Metaphysics in Sedona, Arizona,[3] that offers non-secular Ministerial higher education in Holistic, New Thought Metaphysics and Holistic Ministry. He was awarded an honorary doctorate, based on his books, from Belford University,[3] which offers unaccredited degrees."

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars An excuse-free Life!, July 15, 2009

By	Colleen Messina (New York, NY USA) - See all my reviews

I have been a fan of Wayne W. Dyer for many years, and his new book, "Excuses Begone" is refreshing and comforting. He gently reminds me that I have the power to bring myself into harmony with who I really am - a being that has infinite possibilities of experiencing great success, great health and unlimited happiness. Dyer continues to inspire me with his writing and insight.

Wayne W. Dyer was one of the first authors whom I felt a connection with as I dove into self discovery. If you enjoy Wayne W. Dyer, definitely check out authors, Ariel & Shya Kane. In their books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment & How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, I have discovered an ease within myself that is lasting. The Kanes have helped me discover that Enlightenment is a skill set, not a destination. And it's available right now! It's hard to make excuses when you're living in the moment!