In a sauce pan, cook the lentils as described on the package instructions (usually it's one cup lentils to one cup water). Let the lentils simmer on the stove until tender while you start the chili.
While the lentils are cooking, chop the onion and carrots. In a soup pot, add the onions, carrots and olive oil. Let the onions/carrots saute until slightly tender. Add the garlic cloves and the turkey (or sausage). Break apart the meat until crumbled and browned. Add the remaining ingredients for the chili (seasonings, tomatoes, tomato paste, etc.). Once the chili is brought to a simmer, add the cooked lentils to the chili. Continue to let the soup simmer until you are ready to eat. Season the soup with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish the soup with those of your choice (sour cream, avocados, lime wedge, cilantro, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, etc.).