10/7/2023

This week I want to talk to you about taking responsibility and explain how doing this is good for us and also helps others, if you really think about it.
It’s a strange thing to say, isn’t it? How can taking responsibility, especially if you don’t truly feel at fault, ever feel good? Whether we like it or not, our default position, if feeling criticised or accused, is to try and find an excuse, or to try to blame another person.
Not taking responsibility is also usually our default position and an immediate and unconscious knee-jerk reaction. I am sure that behavioural psychologists or psychotherapists would say it also dates back to our childhoods.
But in a world filled with constant blame games and finger-pointing, taking responsibility is actually a breath of fresh air and fosters trust and respect with others, leading to a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment, that ultimately also leads to our happiness.
For example, one major benefit of taking responsibility is the empowerment that it brings. This shift in mindset lets us take charge of our life, as instead of feeling at the mercy of external circumstances, we are then proactive in shaping our own destiny.
Also, if we hold ourselves accountable, we earn trust and respect from others and people consider us to be authentic. This then builds stronger relationships, as others see us as reliable and dependable. Honesty and integrity also become our guiding principles.
When we take responsibility, we learn lessons and then find chances to improve and become better versions of ourselves. We also develop a strong sense of self-trust, self-respect and grow. Yet if we blame, we will limit or prevent this potential growth.
Taking responsibility also sets an example. When we take ownership of our actions, we can inspire those around us to do the same. Seeing someone take responsibility is a powerful motivator for others to follow suit, which then benefits not just ourselves.
But be careful, despite positives of taking responsibility, there are also negatives, as constantly taking responsibility may enable others to take advantage of us, by avoiding responsibility, causing resentment or strained relationships.
So, this week, try to catch yourself trying to avoid taking responsibility unconsciously for something, if you can; then remember how taking responsibility actually empowers us, builds trust and even brings us happiness!




