The Gamechanger Principle: Blaming vs Owning
I've worked in business for 25 years and know that organizations stuck in this crucial distinction have wasted billions of euros. It's the distinction between blaming versus owning. This distinction is critical for anyone, individual or organization, striving for success. It's crucial for progress, happiness, freedom, and innovation. And... it's subtle and easily overlooked, so I invite you to read this slowly until it hits you and you go, "Oh damn."
Going from Austria to Spain
Picture this: You're in Austria, hungry for an adventure in sunny Spain. The only problem? You believe Spain is up north. And guess what? You start driving in the wrong direction. Instead of sipping sangria on the beaches of Barcelona, you find yourself heading further north, nowhere near your desired destination.
Frustration sets in, confusion, "Who told me this? Who is to blame?" and often towards ourselves, "I should have checked before," or "I'll never learn," or "I'm dumb," or pick whatever you would do. But here's the deal: this blaming is getting you nowhere but stuck.
Own It
The only thing with absolute power is to challenge the idea you've been operating on. In this case, the "Spain is to the north of Austria" belief. Whip out a map, take a good look, and realize your belief is all messed up. Spain isn't up north; it's down south! So, you've been operating on the wrong belief.
this case, is about accepting and owning your mistakes, acknowledging when you've veered off course, and making the necessary corrections. It's important not to blame anyone or anything. This is crucial: recognize your situation without passing judgment on yourself or others, and take responsibility. This is the essential principle of empowerment. Adjust your direction and head south; this is when you'll reach your goals, fulfill your mission, and savor the sweet taste of success.
The Bottom Line
I've witnessed this time and time again. Real progress begins when we refrain from blaming others and take ownership of our actions and choices without making anyone or anything wrong. It's about assessing the outcomes, owning our role, and moving forward with clarity.
If you want to achieve your goals, take ownership. This is the-changer. Apply this principle everywhere: in your professional life, in your relationships, as a parent, and in every aspect of your life.
Own it. Change the game.