I think we can all say that at some point or another, we have come into contact with someone who is completely ignorant of the concept of accountability. They know everything about anything, they can do no wrong, and they’re more than happy to criticize others for their failings but balk if anyone happens to return the favour.
These sorts of people are not very liked, and for obvious reasons; no one wants to be around someone who is incapable of taking any ownership over their actions and/or words.
I’ve come to realize just how important accountability is now that I’m an adult. Granted, I always knew it was important, but the significance of it tends to present itself to a further degree once we mature a little bit. Perhaps this is a result of kids having the opportunity to blame their behaviour on trivial things because they aren’t yet entirely emotionally regulated – this tactic becomes a little trickier once we reach adulthood.
The idea of admitting when we are in the wrong isn’t exactly an enticing one, but it is an important one. If anything, being able to be vulnerable and admit when we have made a mistake shows more maturity and responsibility than not, regardless of how uncomfortable we might feel in the moment, and there is a strong chance that those around us will appreciate our willingness to be honest and take accountability.
No one particularly enjoys being in the wrong or making an error, but failures present an opportunity to learn and grow from our mistakes. Without fuck ups, we aren’t challenged, and going through life without any hiccups along the way is an almost guaranteed way to ensure someone will turn out to be a bit of a dick. Ownership is key, and at the end of the day, no one else is going to do it for you on your behalf, so buck up and do it yourself.
Photo by Daniela Holzer on Unsplash
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