The Power of Taking Responsibility
It is said that we cross the line between childhood and adulthood when we move from saying: “I lost it” to saying: “I lost it.” In fact, taking one's responsibility and understanding and accepting the role that our choices play in things that happen are crucial signs of emotional and moral maturity, which is why taking responsibility is one of the fundamental pillars of good character. Many people are seduced by the Peter Pan philosophy of rejecting maturity and avoiding the burdens of responsibility. Yes, responsibility sometimes requires us to do unpleasant or even scary things. It requires us to carry our burdens, prepare and set goals, and exercise discipline to achieve our aspirations. But the benefits of accepting responsibility far outweigh the short-term benefits of refusing to take it. No one makes his (or her) life better by avoiding taking responsibility. In fact, not taking responsibility is a form of self-imposed slavery to circumstances and to other people. Responsibility is our ability to respond to circumstances and choose the positions and actions that shape our lives. It is a concept of power that puts us in a position of leadership. In our lives, we cannot fully appreciate our capabilities except when we begin to assume responsibility and become self-reliant. Responsible people not only rely on themselves, they show others that they can be relied upon, and this breeds trust, and trust is the key that opens many doors. If you want more control over your life, your happiness, your privileges, and the power of freedom and independence, all you have to do is be responsible.
From the book 44 Amazing by: Michael Josephson
