A student opens the shared document for a group project after school and finds it blank.
“Not my problem,” the student thinks.
A few hours later, another group member checks the document. It remains blank.
“Someone else will do it,” that student assumes.
The last member of the group gets home late and still finds the document blank. Forced to complete the entire project alone, that student works far into the night.
This student suffers an experience shared by many, which occurs when some individuals do not take action because they expect someone else to step up.
The effects of this passive attitude may seem minor, but when too many of us believe that our contributions do not matter, the inaction accumulates. Those shouldering the most responsibility may grow resentful of their peers because they are constantly carrying others’ weight for little in return. Meanwhile, those who do nothing are enabled to continue their behavior because they do not have to confront the immediate consequences.
While there are individuals who take initiative for the right reasons, it is disappointing that most must be incentivized to do their share. The motivation to act should stem from one’s respect for others, whether that be helping group members or throwing out trash instead of leaving it for someone else to pick up.
Our actions, whether big or small, have an impact. If you help carry groceries for a stranger, an onlooking shopper might be inspired to pay it forward. Even if the initial action is small, its impact ripples far beyond.
Each of us can choose to contribute and make a difference, no matter how miniscule the action. When we all step up and pull our weight, we encourage a culture of accountability and collaboration. By recognizing that individual actions reach beyond ourselves, we can start to see real change.
Stop waiting for someone else to start the project. Stop expecting someone else to pick up the trash. Stop assuming someone else will continue the conversation. We need to put in the effort, take responsibility and stop assuming someone else will solve our problems. Change begins with each of us.
Change does not necessarily mean doing something revolutionary, but rather taking accountability for how seemingly small decisions affect others. Staring at a blank document, it is easy to feel like your action, or lack of action, will not have an impact. But to the group members staying up all night to finish that project, your contribution makes a difference. Even when you lack the motivation to take action, do so out of respect for others.
The next time you think, “Not my problem,” or “Someone else will do it,” remember that our actions ripple outward and can have lasting impacts. Make the conscious effort to shape that impact into a positive one.