It is absurd to make external circumstances responsible and not oneself, and to make oneself responsible for noble acts and pleasant objects responsible for base ones.
Aristotle___
Taking responsibility for our actions is an essential component of personal growth and development. The quote “It is absurd to make external circumstances responsible and not oneself, and to make oneself responsible for noble acts and pleasant objects responsible for base ones” speaks to the importance of taking ownership of our choices and not blaming external factors for our shortcomings. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind this quote and how it relates to personal responsibility.
The Meaning Behind the Quote
The quote suggests that we often make the mistake of attributing our successes or failures to external circumstances, rather than taking responsibility for our actions. For example, if we succeed at something, we might credit luck or the help of others, rather than acknowledging our own efforts and abilities. On the other hand, if we fail at something, we might blame outside factors, rather than recognizing where we went wrong and what we could have done differently.
The quote also points out that we tend to associate positive outcomes with noble acts and negative outcomes with base ones. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes, we may achieve success through less-than-noble means, while other times we may fail despite our best efforts. It is therefore important to take responsibility for our actions, regardless of the outcome.
Taking Responsibility for Our Choices
Taking responsibility for our choices means acknowledging that we are in control of our lives and our actions. This can be challenging, especially when things don’t go as planned. However, it is essential for personal growth and development.
When we take responsibility for our choices, we are better able to learn from our mistakes and make changes that will lead to better outcomes in the future. It also allows us to build confidence and self-esteem, as we recognize our own abilities and strengths.
Blaming external factors for our shortcomings can lead to a victim mentality, where we feel powerless and unable to make changes. This can be detrimental to our mental health and well-being, as it can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and helplessness. By taking responsibility for our actions, we empower ourselves to make positive changes and achieve our goals.
Conclusion
The quote “It is absurd to make external circumstances responsible and not oneself, and to make oneself responsible for noble acts and pleasant objects responsible for base ones” reminds us of the importance of taking responsibility for our choices and actions. By doing so, we empower ourselves to make positive changes in our lives and achieve our goals. So, the next time you find yourself blaming external factors for your shortcomings, remember this quote and take ownership of your choices.