"Being You Thursday" image: Who’s in charge of your life?

That might sound like a strange question. But bear with me here. How often have you said something like:

• I’d start my own business if only my partner was more supportive.
• It’s my uncle’s fault that I smoke.
• Well, I wouldn’t drink so much if it wasn’t for my friends.
• My boss really stresses me out.
• I can’t quit my job to travel the world … what would people think?
• I have to lose weight so that I can look more attractive.

In each of these cases, there’s a “should” or a “can’t” that’s been dictated by someone other than you. Perhaps it’s a family member, your peer group, or society as a whole. And many of us are prone to ditching responsibility in this way. I know that I, for one, find it much easier to blame my problems on someone else than to admit that they’re down to me!

Take 100% Responsibility

Several of the personal development writers who I read – Jack Canfield and Steve Pavlina amongst them – emphasize how important it is to take full responsibility for your life.

Yes, of course other people have an effect on us. Perhaps it’s your partner’s fault that your joint credit card is maxed out, or maybe your grandma fed you too much candy as a child and that’s why you have a mouthful of fillings. But in every case, you have a responsibility for what you’re doing about it now.