Whose fault is it that your life is harder than it needs to be? Who set you back? Was it a parent, the lack of parents, a teacher, a neighbor, a friend, or an ex? You’re probably right—if they didn’t do the damaging things they did to you, your life might be different.
It’s not your fault. But here’s the good news: it is your responsibility. I know that doesn’t sound like good news. It sounds like more work for you, and it is. But here’s the thing—you’ll always have to do work. The difference is, this work can transform your life for the better.
Taking responsibility means shifting your focus from what others have done to you, to what you can do for yourself. It’s about realizing that, despite the unfairness of your situation, you have the power to shape your future. This shift is empowering, even if it feels daunting at first.
If we keep waiting for another person to change, we will be slaves to their decisions. Most likely, we’ve been waiting for them to change with no indication that it’s even in their thought process. This situation works for them. Now, we have to find out what works for us.
Acknowledge that while you can’t change the past, you can control your response to it. Start small and be kind to yourself. Choose one small action each day that makes you feel better, like going for a short walk, drinking a glass of water, or writing down a positive thought. These steps might seem too simple but they have proven to help build a habit of self-care. By focusing on small, positive changes and taking responsibility for your actions, you are practicing reclaiming your power and moving towards a healthier, happier future.
While taking responsibility is crucial, it doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. Their support can make a significant difference in your journey toward healing and growth.
Holding on to past grievances keeps you stuck. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing the harm done to you; it means freeing yourself from the burden of resentment. Letting go allows you to focus on the present and build a better future.
Remember, while it’s not your fault, your future is in your hands. Embrace your responsibility, take small steps, seek support, and let go of the past. You have the power to create a life that works for you.
ACTION: Take 5 minutes today to write down 3 things within your control that you can do to improve your life this week. This could be anything from starting a new healthy habit to finally tackling that project you’ve been putting off. By focusing on actionable steps, you’ll start feeling empowered to create positive change.
