Responsibility

by GW Lehtinen

I distinctly remember two things in my earlier life that left a strong impression on me.  When I was in my first year in college and away from my parents, I was captivated by the freedom, doing what I pleased whenever I chose.  The results from being swept away by having no parents telling me what to do surfaced.  I was on academic probation and getting in trouble with the coaching staff because of my laziness and immaturity.  I certainly deserved it, I knew I royally screwed up, and I had to pay the price.  I did recover from it, but it did indeed leave a scar on me mentally.

The second incident was years later, when I was a father.  My son was in middle school and was having difficulty with his grades.  Those same old scars of my youth rose their ugly head, but this time, I was glad, so I could share with my son the mistakes I had made.  I wasn’t angry, but surprisingly calm with him.  I sat him down, explained without yelling or telling him mistakes were made that he already knew.  He saw a side of me that was human, a flawed human that went through tough times academically by choice.  Fun lasts for a brief time, but taking responsibility and growing up will mold you, shape you, and strengthen you.

I took ownership of my choices, I honored my commitments, and I held myself accountable.  My two children, now young adults, have grown up faster than I ever did, and that is a great thing!  No one has it down pat; no one has it perfectly together.  Just keep showing up, plugging away, and improving on weak areas, and give your best effort out there.  When you make a mistake, try to acknowledge it as quickly as you can.  If it’s your fault, accept it, take the heat, and this will build your credibility and trustworthiness amongst your peers.

You always have total control over your attitude, actions, and responses.  Having a positive mental attitude will help you overcome obstacles in daily life.  Trying to practice self-care will help your physical and mental well-being and set healthy boundaries with everyone around you.  Saying “No” at times if you are too busy or stressed out is about taking charge of your own daily responsibilities.  Try not to spread yourself too thin during work, or family and friend time, you always need your own time, even if it is brief.