When we were young, we often said, “I want to own that.” Whether it was a new car, a boat, or a specific type of computer, owning something had significant meaning. We felt a sense of accomplishment when we attained something we desired. As we grew older, some of us were inspired to become business owners, seeking the independence and fulfillment of working for ourselves. Our idea of ownership evolved; we recognized that it came with responsibility. Our aspirations grew, and so did the challenges in achieving and maintaining them.
For some, there was a disconnect between owning material things, like a car, and the dream of owning a business. Many of us forgot to own ourselves. Some people neglected to take ownership of their work, their interactions with others, and their responsibilities to their employers or families. They began to feel entitled, believing they were due respect, success, promotions, or raises simply because they felt they deserved them. There was no consideration of whether they had earned these rewards, whether they had been successful, or whether they had outperformed others. They believed they were entitled.
However, in the real world, if you don’t work hard, treat people well—especially your family and co-workers—and provide value, you will not like the results over time. Much of what we call failure can be attributed to a failure to take ownership of oneself.
For instance, if you are supposed to provide an estimate for a job and you merely guess your way to a bid, you are likely to lose that bid. If, by chance, you win it, you may wish you hadn’t if the project ends up being unprofitable. Conversely, if you take ownership of creating a comprehensive bid that includes everything necessary to win and be profitable, you set yourself up for success.
Ownership isn’t just about possessing items like that car or even a business. True ownership includes owning yourself. When you own your actions, your interactions, and your preparedness, you pave the way for success. Not every effort will result in a win, even when executed to the best of your ability—that’s life, and such outcomes are the exception. However, if you keep working hard and take ownership of yourself, you will become a winner and someone who is proud of what they own.
Taking ownership of oneself means taking responsibility for your actions and their outcomes. It involves being accountable for your successes and failures, learning from them, and continually striving to improve. This mindset not only leads to personal growth but also earns the respect and trust of those around you. And in so doing, you set yourself on a path to true success and fulfillment.