There are many factors that impact one’s rate of success and there are many traits that successful individuals possess.   One of such trait is a sense of responsibility.  Responsibility means many things, from the very basics such as paying one’s bills to your obligations as a member of society.  Responsibility means being conscientious about your obligations and meeting those obligations.  Irresponsible people may get away with their behavior sometimes, but rarely will an irresponsible individual achieve success in the long run.

Responsibility applies not only individuals, but also to organizations and institutions such as business and government.  The recent events in the financial markets are good examples of how institutions can act irresponsibly and eventually get caught in their own web of capriciousness.  What we are seeing in the financial markets are simply the result of irresponsible behavior by financial institutions that, motivated by greed, lent money to people who they knew were not worthy of the credit they were provided.  The consequences are the appalling failures of the biggest and most powerful financial institutions on Wall Street.

Many people are blaming the government for being irresponsible and not providing regulation and oversight to a situation that was clearly out of control.  When the party was going on and everyone was having a good time, no one had the guts to call it for what it was and stop it.  That was not only irresponsible; it also demonstrated lack of leadership in the current administration and in congress.  When the House was first called to act decisively to pass a bill to rescue the US economy from a potential collapse and great depression, many politicians instead chose to play politics or protect their own jobs.  Many only changed their votes after significant political pressure and "sweetening" of the bill. That is total lack of responsibility by the very people who are supposed to set examples for the rest of us.  No wonder the approval ratings for the political leaders of the US are so low.  Most are acting in their own political self-interest and behave in a manner that is not commensurate with responsibility that was bestowed upon them when they were elected into office.

In order to be successful in the long run, you must take your responsibilities seriously:

Manage Your Finances

You are obligated to pay your debts.  In order to do so, you must know how to manage your debt and, most importantly, you must live within your means.  This is one the most fundamental principles of financial success.

Take Care of Yourself

You also have an obligation to take care of yourself.  That means living a healthy life, eating right, exercising, and taking care of your mental and physical well-being.

Care for Your Loved Ones

You have obligations to the ones you love.  This applies to your parents, spouse, kids, extended family, friends, and others.  You have a responsibility to treat them with love and respect and provide them with the support they need.

Do Your Job Well

Regardless of what job you have, you are responsible for doing it well.  Even if you don’t like your job, doing your very best is your responsibility.

Fulfill Your Obligations to Your Customers

If you are a businessman, you have an obligation to satisfy your customers.   This means shipping when you say you are going to ship.  It means being available when you say that you will.  It means addressing customer complaints promptly and respectfully.  Companies that do not fulfill their obligations to their customers will not be around for very long.

Be a Good Citizen

Being a good citizen includes respecting the laws, paying your taxes, helping your community and being involved in the political process by voting.  These are all responsibilities every one of us should take seriously.

Success has everything to do with responsibility.  If you act responsibly day-in and day-out, success will be second-nature to you.  If not, you will likely end up like the failed financial institutions on Wall Street.