⏰ Mindset Minute

{February 21, 2023}

Have you ever heard of the term radical responsibility? It’s the idea that we are 100% responsible for the results of our choices.

On one hand, it’s a great concept because it reminds us of the power and control we have in a situation. That if we don’t like the way things are, we have everything we need to change it for the better.

On the other hand, it can be a toxic mindset and launch us into a downward spiral whenever life hits you.

It’s a fertile breeding ground for the “Everything is all my fault,” narrative.

If your inner voice has whispered this (or maybe even shouted it), you’re not alone, my friend. It happens to the best of us.

But that doesn’t mean it can’t still serve us if used properly.

Here are 3 reminders to keep you grounded when taking radical responsibility:

1. You are only responsible for your actions and perspectives.
   You can’t control what happens in life, but you can control how you respond to it.

   Victor E. Frankl said,
   ”Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
   

2. There’s a fine line between control and influence
   Your actions may not have given you what you wanted, but it doesn’t mean you’re completely powerless either.
   The bumpers on bowling lane won’t guarantee a strike, but it’ll absolutely help the ball reach the pins.

3. We can accept our part in the outcome, and still try again.
   You can be responsible without being perfect. A lot of times our feeling of “powerlessness” comes from how we view the external influence we have: money, status, etc.
   But our true power comes within: our mindset, faith, resilience.
   What did Rocky say?
   ”It’s not about how hard you it. It’s about how hard you get hit and get back up again.”
   

Remember, not everything will work out for us or for others, but it does mean that we have a choice: to give up or keep trying.

The next time “life happens”, ask yourself what part did I play in this? Did I do my best with what I knew at the time?

If so, then let go and try again!