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This lesson focuses on the importance of owning one's actions and fulfilling personal duties.
Imagine you accidentally knock over a vase and no one is in the room to see it. Do you walk away, or do you stay to help clean it up? Your choice in that moment reveals your 'superpower' of responsibility.
Being responsible means you are the 'captain of your own ship.' It involves two main parts: doing the things you are supposed to do (your duties) and accepting the results of your choices (your actions). Think of responsibility like a backpack. Everyone carries one, and inside are things like finishing your homework, feeding your pet, and being kind to others. When you take responsibility, you show others that you are reliable and trustworthy. In fact, if you give effort to your duties, people will know they can count on you even when things get tough. Responsibility isn't about being perfect; it's about being honest about what you do.
Quick Check
What are the two main parts of being responsible?
Answer
Doing your duties and accepting the results of your actions.
When we make a mistake, it’s tempting to use an excuse. An excuse is a reason we give to try and hide our blame. You might say, 'I didn't do my chores because the TV was too loud,' or 'I broke the toy because it was already old.' Excuses are like leaky buckets—they don't hold water for long! When you make an excuse, you are giving away your power. By saying 'I made a mistake,' you keep your power because you are the one in control of fixing it. Admitting a mistake builds integrity, which is doing the right thing even when it is hard.
1. The Mistake: You forgot to return your library book on time. 2. The Excuse: 'My mom didn't put it in my bag!' 3. The Responsible Choice: 'I forgot to check my bag this morning. I will bring it tomorrow and pay the small fine.' 4. The Result: The librarian trusts you more because you were honest.
Quick Check
Why is saying 'I made a mistake' better than making an excuse?
Answer
It helps you keep your power and builds integrity and trust with others.
Taking responsibility doesn't stop at admitting a mistake. You also need to make things right! We use the A.A.C. Method to fix errors:
1. Apologize: Say 'I am sorry' without adding the word 'but.' 2. Ask: Ask, 'How can I make this right?' or 'How can I help fix this?' 3. Change: Make a plan so the mistake doesn't happen again.
If you follow this formula: , you will find that people are much more likely to forgive you and give you more responsibilities in the future.
Imagine you accidentally kick a soccer ball through a neighbor's garage window. 1. Apologize: Go to the neighbor and say, 'I am sorry I broke your window with my soccer ball.' 2. Ask: 'Can I help clean up the glass, or can I do extra chores to help pay for the repair?' 3. Change: 'I will only practice my power kicks at the park from now on.'
You were supposed to draw the poster for a group project, but you played video games instead and now it's not done. 1. Own it: Tell your group, 'I didn't finish my part because I got distracted.' 2. Fix it: Offer to stay late or work through recess to finish it so the group doesn't get a bad grade. 3. Prevent it: Set a timer for homework before any gaming in the future.
Which of these is a sign of taking responsibility?
What does the 'A' in the A.A.C. Fix-It Plan stand for (there are two!)?
Making an excuse helps you keep your power in a situation.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to remember the three steps of the A.A.C. Method for fixing mistakes.
Practice Activity
Pick one 'duty' at home this week (like making your bed) and do it every day without being asked. See if your parents notice the change!