Personal Responsibility

Personal Responsibility

Nov.20, 2013

As students of University of Phoenix, to ensure success we must have and display personal responsibility. But what is personal responsibility? What does that mean to be personally responsible? The Webster's dictionary would indicate that personal responsibility is making oneself accountable.  In preparing this essay I surveyed coworkers and friends from different ethnic backgrounds but from a specific community (Law Enforcement). This survey was simple. I asked the people getting surveyed to give one word explaining responsibility. The following words were given: Authority, Duty, Obligation, Power, Trust, Care, Accountability, Burden, Liability, Constraint, Culpability and Fault.

The definition and act of being personally responsible varies from person to person. For example some of the people surveyed believed it to be an enhancement of sorts whereas others saw it as a hindrance. As students of University of Phoenix, being personally responsible may simply mean showing up to class on time, completing the assignments on time, turning in the assignments, getting good grades and paying tuition on time. These examples or actions display what is "The Letter of the Law" concerning personally responsible. Student's should concern themselves with "The Spirit of The Law" when it comes to personal responsibility. Specifically what action will be taken in the face of adversity when an individual either intentionally or unintentionally fails his or her responsibility? Will the person in conflict blame someone else and "pass the buck"? Or, will that same person own up to his or her error and still display personal responsibility?

For the sake of one's reputation and character the second example is of stronger measure and consequence. The second example brings so much more to bear about the individual's character such as integrity, courage, trustworthiness, and honesty. What we are looking at is being personally responsible for not just your actions but your life. Be responsible for your life each and every day.

 Personally responsibility begins with individual attitude. Whether you choose to start your own business or become an alcoholic, the individual choices that are made have consequences. According to the US FED News Service, article titled: Personal Responsibility (2011, April 20), Attitude is everything. Always try to make good choices, learn from the bad choices and always take responsibility. Have a plan and set long term and short term goals.

The "Personal Goal Setting" (1996-2013) website explains the importance behind setting goals. Setting short term and long term goals will strengthen individual personal responsibility, provide long term direction and short term motivation. Start by identifying long term goals or life goals in areas that matter most to you (e.g. career, retirement, financial, fitness, and relationship) break that list down into a five year plan. The next step is setting short term goals. Develop a one year plan, a six month, and one month plan. It sounds difficult, but it is important to chart your course into the future.  Always make time to review your goals and make changes as necessary when priorities change.

When setting these goals a handy method is to apply the SMART lens. SMART stands for: S-Specific or Significant, M- Measurable, A-Attainable, R- Relevant or Reasonable and T- Trackable. For example at 34 years old it might be a little unreasonable and un-attainable to set the goal of becoming an astronaut. Although nothing is impossible, the years of physical training and education that go into such a profession would be difficult to achieve at that age.

The "Personal Responsibility" (2010-2013) website found that leading a responsible life can bring many fortunes such as personal freedom, control, fulfilling life, health, success, and growth. These fortunes are the richest soil to take root in and will cultivate success in other areas of your life as well. You will see added success in your relationships, careers, health, and finances. The fact is personal responsibility and the truth it brings can set you free. Personal responsibility is tentamount to personal success, confidence, and power. This success comes with a steadfast commitment to take personal responsibility for all aspects of your life.