A few thoughts from our first lady Jelena Vuletić, ACC..
Responsibility. Such an important word for me.
At one point in my life, I decided to take the responsibility for my two daughters and myself. Since then, I’ve been responsible for many different people and tasks, both professionally and privately. I have to say it has been challenging but rewarding.
What about freedom and independence? Well, everything is intertwined. However, there are certain steps that must be taken. This is my way of going about it and hopefully, it will be useful for many others.
- Going through the process of self-awareness (who I am and what is beneficial for me)
- Making the decision (not giving excuses or blaming someone / something e.g. luck, weather, God …)
- Checking that the decision is sustainable i.e. if it fits with all other goals
- Taking the responsibility
- Enjoying the freedom and independence
When asked about what they want, employees usually state freedom. What does it entail? It’s not just doing the things our way and then asking for help. It’s not getting all solutions and answers from others. That’s not freedom. When we are given the task, we are also given certain responsibility. The bigger the task, the greater the responsibility.
So, before asking for freedom we should just go once again through first step and ask ourselves: Are we ready for responsibility? Are we ready for freedom?
On the other hand, most people would like to have freedom but when they get it, they don’t know what to do with it. They need to be ready.
Tips for leaders
- spread a culture of responsibility, thereby promoting responsibility (don’t only give the tasks, give responsibility);
- if employees are not ready, support them in that process;
- work with employees on their self-confidence and support them throughout.
Tips for employees
- Speak openly and ask for support in the areas where you really need support;
- Doublecheck if you can take the responsibility, don’t be ashamed to say that you can’t do something. Always have in mind that with a given task you’re also accepting the responsibility;
- Give your best to find a way out of a problem, don’t immediately run for help, but also don’t to wait too long.
If you missed our first lady’s previous text on “Openness in business – why we should pay more attention to it?” you can read it here.
