To Thine Own Self Be True - FIRST

by Brian P. Hower
(Erie, Pennsylvania Area)

Interesting. I once worked for a company that "claimed" to have this philosophy. The truth was that they applied it only OUTWARDLY and held the employees to the standard but not themselves.

In essence, this was a huge double standard and was THE reason I left that company.

I believe that each of us does have to take responsibility. However, things DO happen to us often that are totally out of our control. We can't take responsibility for those things actually happening.

We can only take responsibility for how we react/cope with them. Then we must make accurate assessments of the situation and make sound changes or decisions.

For example: when it finally became apparent that the aforementioned company would not come to realize (and take responsibility for) their own shortcomings, I knew I had to make a change. And I did.

Many people thought I was crazy because they had fallen into the company's trap. Not I.

It was one of the best decisions I have ever made to leave.

So, the lesson is this: To Thine Own Self Be True - FIRST.
Meaning that yes, do take responsibility for everything in your own control.

But also hold others accountable when you see that they are clearly in the wrong or headed in a non-productive direction.

Brian P. Hower
http://www.business-internet-and-media.com/

SUZIE'S COMMENTS...

Brian,

Great statement. "We can only take responsibility for how we cope..." Also, agree that holding others accountable is important too.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and insights!

All the Best, and More!
Suzie