“Being responsible is an enormous privilege . . . It’s what marks anyone a fully grown human.”
Barack Obama, 44th President of the U.S.

Hmmm. I’ve never thought of being responsible as a privilege before. Have you? I’ve been reflecting on this. Usually I find myself feeling overly responsible. I’m the oldest of 4 children and for me feeling responsible began at an early age. Additional responsibilities followed throughout my parenting and professional life. Just like many of you. There have been times that I didn’t want to be the responsible one! Sound familiar? The more that I’ve looked at being responsible through a different lens I can embrace it as a privilege. Why? Because it’s all about having the freedom to make choices! And we have that, don’t we? Freedom to be responsible and make choices as well as be accountable for the choices we make is being fully grown as former President Barack Obama has said! 

For me, having the freedom to choose is more important than giving my power to choose away to someone else even though I might feel like it would be easier at times. I know it’s not true. We have the ability to create the life we want to live! Living somewhere that I’m told what to do would be awful! American political figure, diplomat, and activist, Eleanor Roosevelt, has said “In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.” So, I’m willing to look at being responsible in a more positive and constructive way – ‘being responsible is an enormous privilege’! Living more consciously includes making more conscious choices! It’s important to consider how the choices that I make will impact the environment and other people! How will they impact my personal values and personal growth?

How often are the choices we make because we don’t want to disappoint someone? The desire ‘to please’ can be a very strong motivator. What if we ask, “What is my motivation for making this choice?” If you’re someone who wants to help others creating healthy boundaries for yourself might feel challenging. Saying no might feel very uncomfortable. Will you look through a different lens and feel the responsibility of making a conscious choice as a privilege now? American theoretical physicist, Richard Feynman, has said “You have no responsibility to live up to what other people think you ought to accomplish. I have no responsibility to be like they expect me to be. It’s their mistake, not my failing.” Let’s let go of self-judgment and lean more into self-acceptance. Let’s view being responsible as a privilege instead of a burden. I’m ready, are you? 

I hope you have enjoyed your Labor Day weekend! I’m sending you lots of love and hope your week is amazing!

I’m available for private coaching and channeled information sessions at Storm Wisdom on Tuesdays from 1p – 6p by appointment. Please call Storm Wisdom, (602)334-1204 to schedule. I’m also available by phone or Zoom. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com.