No excuses

Author: Richard Taylor
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-02-02
Features: West Point has a long-standing tradition where when seniors or officers ask questions to cadets, there are only four "standard answers": Yes, Sir; No, Sir; No excuse, Sir; I don't know, Sir. Beyond these, no other responses are allowed. Whether you fail or make mistakes, no matter how beautiful the excuse, it offers no help in changing the situation. Instead of making excuses, it's better to work hard to find solutions, think about what to do next, and do your utmost to achieve your goals. "No excuses" is a crucial behavioral principle followed by West Point cadets. It may seem unfeeling, cold, and ruthless, but it can unleash a person's greatest potential, urging them to use all their intelligence and strength to complete the task.