Responsibility

The ability to reason and the freedom to choose are what make people capable of being responsible for their actions. A responsible person can be trusted; they are dependable and accountable. It is not easy to find someone like this but when we do, we notice that their motivation is different from others. Two things that motivate responsible people are responsibility in itself and the feeling of accomplishment.

It requires high quality people to be motivated purely by responsibility without personal benefits or even with loss. They stand for their convictions no matter what others say or do, even if it costs them their friendships. They are motivated by ethics and principles that are worth fighting for, have a firm foundation that they live by, and don’t care if this makes them different or even risks their position or reputation. They are people of value and can be placed anywhere in our businesses or political arena. They are courageous men and women living their lives according to their beliefs.

The second motivator is simply the feeling of accomplishment. Often there is no particular benefit gained except the satisfaction of attaining the objective. An example would be a very rich person who could spend his money golfing every day or traveling for the rest of his life. Instead he keeps doing business and working every day, even venturing into new things. Some people may think he does this because he’s greedy. He may be, but it is possible that he simply enjoys being responsible and likes to achieve new goals. This person may do what others say can’t be done, simply for the sake of doing it.

Being responsible is more than making a commitment. It is a value based belief, a true calling birthed in a person. It is a desire or an inner force that holds them accountable to themselves. They do things for the sake of getting them done or for the enjoyment of seeing them done.

Some characteristics of responsible people are that they think long term, they do everything possible to make things better and they are trustworthy. They are good examples and they make a difference, not making excuses or justifying themselves to avoid responsibilities.

1. Other people see us as people of value.

2. There is satisfaction when we do things because of the commitment we have towards ourselves and those who trust us.

3. We do the best with what we have.

4. Trust is earned and we are known to be reliable.

Strong organizations are built by responsible people. They are focused on who they are and the mission they are on. They are the support needed on which to build a great society.

1. Take a hold of your own life. Be responsible to develop your character.

2. Build a good reputation. Become someone responsible and trustworthy.

3. Seek to solve problems.

4. Be sensible and disciplined. Take care of your health, emotions, time and money.

5. Be rational. Behave according to reason, not anger or fear.

6. Be responsible. Become a support of the organization even though it may cause you to lose a friendship.

7. Be conscientious. What you say and do makes the difference. Take every opportunity to influence what is right.

8. Focus on ethics and principles.

Responsibility is based on being accountable for your behavior to others. It is doing more than what is asked, it is doing what is right and avoiding involvement in what is not right. It is being motivated by conviction and inner strength, being faithful, serving others and in turn gaining a good reputation, a good name and leaving a legacy.

Responsibility is an integral part of character; education or riches are not necessary to develop this quality. If we want to be successful we need to learn to be responsible.

Do you consider yourself a responsible person?

Why or why not?

What could you do to be more responsible in your current situation?