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Media Relations

Women say, "Save the excuses"

Self-handicapping expert Ed Hirt has found that men are more likely to engage in self-handicapping than women and are more forgiving of others who are quick with the excuses. Self-handicapping is when a person creates an excuse for failure before the situation even occurs. Being late, blowing off studying, excessive drinking and inadequate sleep are examples of self-handicapping.

"Self-handicappers make excuses ahead of time so they are covered if they do poorly and appear like over-achievers if they do well," said Hirt, associate professor in Indiana University Bloomington's Department of Psychological and Brain Studies.

Hirt's recent research on self-handicapping focuses on gender differences. While neither sex is immune to making excuses, men are more likely to actually sabotage their chances for success by withdrawing effort -- or failing to do the practice or preparation that they know will increase their chances for success.

"Women are less likely to self-handicap in this way and respond more negatively to others who fail to expend effort at important tasks," Hirt said. "Men will actually engage in self-sabotage and are more lenient and understanding of others who do."

He said women and men place different personal value on effort, with women placing more importance than men on putting forth effort.

Hirt said he strongly believes that people can change. For people who self-handicap, this requires them to change their perspective on performance issues. He suggests the following:

• Focus on success. Hirt said focusing on success rather than worrying about potential failures appears to help self-handicappers. Self-handicappers constantly worry about the possibility that "I could fail," instead of focusing on what they can do to maximize their chances for success and getting the necessary task done.
• Recognize self-handicapping. Poor nutrition, tardiness, inadequate sleep, excessive drinking, blowing off studying or practice, poor preparation and stress are examples of self-handicapping.
• Quit complaining. Most self-handicappers complain after the situation has occurred and talk about "What could have been" rather than what actually happened.
• Put yourself to the test. The next time you have an exam or presentation at work, prepare for it. Continue to challenge yourself.

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