Sometimes You Need to be Irresponsible

As I type this, I’m sitting at my local taproom, two pints in. This may be the fuel for my post. Nonetheless, I believe this to my core. I want you to know this, too.

I talk a lot about personal responsibility. Unleashing and embodying yourself takes responsibility. Creating and living a values-based life takes a certain amount of personal responsibility. Shedding old stories and limiting beliefs takes responsibility. Reaching out for help and community takes an incredible amount of responsibility. So trust me when I say that responsibility has its place and that place has value. Taking responsibility can be empowering. This gives it a special seat at the table of taking ownership of your life. That seat doesn’t belong to anything or anyone else. However, there are a lot of other seats at the table. A few of those being spontaneity and fun. They deserve attention, too.

Responsibility requires a certain amount of control. When you’re working at taking responsibility, or being in control, regarding so many aspects of your life, what comes up for you? For me, that control both pleases me in that it provides predictability, security, and the foundation to live a values-based life, and it also ends up making me feel restricted. In all things, there is a balance. Responsibility is no different than any other value.

Restricting the human spirit results in limited creativity and joy. Is it possible to be spontaneous and responsible? What about fun and responsible? The answer, for me, is yes (although it may not come easy). Choosing to be irresponsible doesn’t need to equate to being reckless. It means letting go of control. It means that I’ve given responsibility a lot of the space at the table and I’d like to find the others some space, too.

This serves as a reminder to make space for fun. For spontaneity. Do what makes you feel joy. Maybe even on a whim. You’re working hard at creating a values-based life - make sure to kick off your shoes, lean back, throw your feet on top of the table, and invite spontaneity and fun to the table. Make sure they’ve got adequate space. Follow their lead. Don’t let responsibility overpower the rest of the guests at the table.