Take responsibility for your life!

Look around. Who constantly blames the boss, fellow co-workers, family members, even the cashier at the local Quickie Mart for their less-than-happy life? Now, look in that dastardly mirror and ask yourself whom you’ve been pointing the finger at because of where you are in life.

Taking charge of your life is as simple as . . .well, truth is, it’s not simple, but here are some suggestions that will make the process easier.

1. Grab a notebook and pen. Every time you find yourself blaming someone for a shortfall in your life, write it down. If your boss flipped out because you misfiled a client’s folder – write it down. When a sharp-looking car dealer talks you into buying a sports car, instead of a mini-van – write it down. Don’t think about it. Just write it down. Do this for one week.

2.Get your reading glasses. Pick a time when you can read your “Blame Journal” straight through non-stop. Now, address each entry individually. Okay, you misfiled a company folder. It happens all the time and your boss is just a jerk, you say. Was this a one-time instance, or does it happen frequently? Maybe it’s not the boss. Maybe this isn’t the job for you; a hard realization, but a possibility.

3.Don’t play the blame game. As cliché as it sounds, this can be the most rewarding challenge, because you are looking at yourself dead-on. Instead of blaming the car dealer for taking advantage and selling you an expensive car, admit you can be easily led and promise to give yourself 12 hours before making decisions different from your original goal.

Take responsibility for your life in three easy steps? Of course not. But these steps are essential and will involve commitment and force you to face shortcomings. Write your journal. Write your resolutions. Then write your success story.