Responsibility is responding—and not reacting—to your environment. None of us can survive in a vacuum.

Oftentimes, our emotional reactions can seem totally justified. However, it’s important we learn to control our responses to other people and situations so that we’re never at risk of compromising who we are when we’re faced with the unexpected.

I hear many of you say that you think you’re responsible because your schoolwork is organized or you do your chores without being asked.

I get that, but it’s not exactly what I’m talking about.

True responsibility for self is two-fold.

First, it’s not taking on other people’s problems as our own. Second, it’s recognizing that your job is to do what needs to be done in every situation in order to meet your potential and purpose.

Today, do what you need to do to take some responsibility for yourself.

Graphics by Shyanne Trutwein.