The Tribune

Some people have the habit of accepting responsibility, while others have the habit of avoiding responsibility. To those in the latter group: you may not realise it, but while it may seem like you’re getting away with something, in the long run you are only short-changing yourself.

By accepting responsibility, you strengthen your ability to respond. It is your ability to respond that gives you empowerment.

I define empowerment as tapping into your power within. It is only when you are willing to accept responsibility that you truly tap into you’re power within. This point is also critical when it comes to issue of ownership. Whenever I hear the word ownership tossed around in daily discussion, particularly about the economy of the Bahamas, many seem to be of the view that ownership is something that someone else must give to you. Nothing could be further from the truth.

First things first, ownership, no matter how you slice it, is an effect, not a cause.

The cause of ownership is responsibility. There is no ownership without responsibility. Those who take ownership of anything understand that they must first take responsibility for that thing.

This point is clearly echoed in mergers and acquisitions.

I worked at a bank that was acquired by another institution. Before they took ownership of our bank they first had to take responsibility for the staff costs, including employees’ benefits, salaries etcetera, as well as all of our bank’s liabilities. It was only after taking responsibility in this regard that they actually took ownership.

Having said that, if you are desirous of owning any part of the economy, first assess your tolerance for taking responsibility. Real owners know the power of accepting responsibility. In so doing, they take the lead.

Clearly, if you have allowed yourself to fall into the category of avoiding responsibility, you cannot board the 747 flight called ownership. More than this, by avoiding responsibility you live a life of uncertainty.

You get stuck waiting for something to happen, whereas responsibility teaches you that you must make it happen.

I’m grateful to my mother who enabled me to develop a great relationship with responsibility.

By accepting personal responsibility, I found the courage to face my challenges with confidence. I quickly realised that if I was going to live my life on my own terms I had to get out of the blame game. Because no matter what I face, ultimately I am the captain of my ship.

Leader to leader, isn’t time you accept responsibility? Remember, only the responsible are truly free.

Living an empowered life is one where you are free to live your life as you desire it to be. Yes, you can do it.

What do you think? Please send your comments to coaching242@yahoo.com or 429-6770.

• Michelle M Miller is a certified life coach, communication and leadership expert. Visit www.michellemmiller.com; mail can be sent to PO Box CB-13060.