“Who wants to volunteer?”
Perhaps one of the questions we used to dread when we were younger. Most especially if it was during board work or recitation in class.
And sometimes up to now. When there’s a group activity and you have to introduce yourself in front and all eyes are on you.
I am speaking for my recently-converted ambivert self who just wants to take a step back and let others shine first as I bask in my own happy, peaceful space as I patiently wait for my turn.
I’m very thankful though that more often than not, there are people who are willing to step up and take center stage more enthusiastically than I. Bida ang saya, as Jollibee says.
Don’t get me wrong: this is not a call for anyone to just take the back seat. In fact, it’s an invitation to take up space and be fully responsible for yourself.
Taking the lead is no easy feat. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour that goes with the position; it’s also about the huge responsibility that comes with it.
That my friends, is what is oftentimes overlooked by people who are merely focused on what, let’s just say, is merely superficial.
Think about this: when was the last time you regretted volunteering first for a task or taking a leadership role in a project or organization?
While the intentions may have been good and the initial impression may have been beyond validating, what happens next as you do the dirty work needed for the job on hand may change your perspective and feelings thereafter.
Taking responsibility over things (and yourself) is not a walk in the park.
Not only do you need to deliver accordingly as you give your all, you also have to weather through the judgments of all the people around you, and those which are stemming from within.
However, there can’t be any excuse though (unless it’s a matter of life and death, in my opinion), for anyone to just ignore one’s accountability for his/her actions.
Let me give you a classic example of which I feel a lot of you can relate with: Having to ask for x-number of times for the money someone owes you from way back.
For me, it’s just kind of weird why the burden is suddenly placed on the lender in order for him/her to get the sum he/she deserves in the first place.
I mean, if both parties had an agreement as to when and how the sum should be paid, why suddenly turn cold and seen zone all messages of follow ups when it was due?
Doing such has destroyed many relationships of different kinds, a lot of which have brought regrets beyond repair thereafter simply because one party took the other for granted.
Accountability is anchored on respect. Not only for the other party but for one’s self as it greatly affects one’s credibility and integrity.
Running away from a situation or an obligation so to speak, can never resolve the issue on hand as it will only result in greater complications.
Accountability applies beyond money matters though: it’s also needed when you assume any position or role that requires you to lead and serve others while upholding your promises; when you get into any kind of relationship where trust and transparency are key ingredients to make it work and even when you pursue your biggest goals because you are responsible for your own progress and results in this life time as you fully commit to yourself and your growth.
What I am saying is it’s very important to keep your word and uphold the highest sense of responsibility for yourself and your actions because your reputation, relationships, happiness and peace of mind are at stake. Never compromise them by turning a blind eye on what you must do, no matter how hard it may seem at first. Because regardless of the results you may have, you will learn in the process. And that isn’t exactly possible if you run away from things (and people) at the onset of any challenge.
Don’t fake it. Face it till you make it.
So at this point I would like to ask you these questions:
What do you need to be accountable for?
What does making this happen look like?
Reflect and take responsibility thereafter.
Now, who wants to volunteer?
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