Responsibility : It's Not About "Feeling Good"

Do I do what is right only when it feels good for me to do so? RESPONSIBILITY is about "knowing and doing what is expected of me." If that standard of expectation has its roots in my own feelings and emotions, then the result is one of unreliability - this is because emotions are subjective in nature. RESPONSIBILITY is a choice. It is choosing to consistently do what is right because of a sense of duty and obligation for the good of others - even if it means making unpopular decisions.

Here's a quick check for RESPONSIBILITY : When something goes wrong (as it often will), what is your first reaction? The unreliable person will be quick to blame and make excuses while the RESPONSIBLE person will first of all recognize what can be done within his or her own jurisdiction before looking at the actions of others. A RESPONSIBLE leader is one who is response-able i.e. he or she is able to choose to fulfill obligations and duties above personal biasness and emotional preferences. The basis of motivation for a RESPONSIBLE person is based on strong convictions and not slothful comfort.