Words Can’t Undo Actions, but Change Moves You Forward

As much as we may sometimes wish that we could hit a redo button and try something again, we cannot avoid the consequences of our actions. No matter how much you regret doing or not doing something, how good your intentions were, or what outside factors played into the outcome, you have to make the most of the situation and keep moving forward. As Stephen Covey pointed out, “You can't talk your way out of a problem you behaved your way into.” 

When you encounter a problem, it is important to understand what went wrong and what you could have done differently in order to reach a different outcome. This is known as the point of accountability. It means that you accept the role you played in getting here, and it is the first step in ensuring that you take new action in the future. You may also be required to verbalize this to a supervisor or anyone else who was effected by the outcome and explain how you plan to address something like this moving forward.

On that note, you must follow through on what you say you are going to do. Words mean nothing without action, and change is only effective when performed consistently. You cannot correct the action or behavior one time and then forget about it. You need to reinforce the positive change until it becomes a pattern. Stop making excuses and starting taking action.

If you find yourself facing a problem of your own making, try not to get defensive and don’t try to sweettalk your way out of it. Instead, take the time to look for the lesson, take accountability for your actions, and work on bridging the gap between your intentions and your impact. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be honest with yourself and willing to grow.

-Meghan Slaughter