We make excuses for colleagues and family members more often than we realize. Disqualifying someone because they might get defensive, “can’t” meet deadlines, have a certain skin color or are too old/too young is just an excuse. It causes distrust, enables poor performance and robs people of the chance to become self-aware and grow. Instead, try treating people like adults: ask them to do things that will stretch them, then give them the support they will need as they rise to the level you expect. Believe in them and let them delight you with what they are capable of.