I’m about to turn 30. God willing, I’m about a third of the way through, but I’ve already learned some things thus far. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned, about three years ago now, is that everything that is “happening” to you at this moment is absolutely your fault.
I’ve noticed that too few of us are willing to take responsibility for the events and situations that occur in our lives. We’re quick to blame other people or to point out what they could have done better. We’re quick to blame the economy or a lack of opportunity or of time. I’ve even heard some people blame the weather.
Adulthood boot camp.
It’s time to take responsibility for every aspect of our lives and to understand that every decision we’ve made, heretofore, has lead us inexorably to where we are right now.
So here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to call out some of the most common issues I come across, and reframe it. Don’t worry; I’m going to use some real-life examples from my own experiences, too, because you’ll never hear me preach something I haven’t practiced myself.
Please note: I understand that there are circumstances and events that an individual cannot control, and I empathize deeply with anyone who’s going through something troubling that is demonstrably outside their control.
Problems at work? It’s probably you.
Let’s say that you’re in some sort of management position and your team isn’t performing…