This idea has stuck with me for a long time:
'we have a responsibility to other people, but, we are not responsible for other people'.
Just a change of one word changes the meaning of the entire sentence.
If you're like me, I use to take on over-responsiblity in my mind for other people's actions. I would beat myself up thinking that there was something I could do better, should have done, regret doing that might have affected the outcome of the situation.
But, this idea of responsibility to others - not for others- allows me to feel free ... and this allows me to focus on being the best me I can in the roles of my life. For example, I have the responsibility to be the best therapist I can for my clients. But I'm not responsible for what they choose to take from therapy and how they apply it, or don't apply it, to their lives.
I learned when I give up worry, and my old assumption that taking on other people's stuff means I am kind and caring, I am more free to be the compassionate, creative, confident, thoughtful, energetic and inspired person I wish to be.
Please visit www.connectedliving-fl.com for more information about Dr. Corinne and The Center of Connected Living-Fl.
I found this to be very impactful—the transition from for to to is significant. It connects with my research regarding the expectation for women to bear emotional responsibility for others. Your perspective assists in redefining that burden and fits perfectly with the feminism dissertation topics. I appreciate you sharing this!
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