If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me

Written By: Randy Smith

As a teenager, growing up, there was a sign directly above my bed that read "If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me." I don't know where it came from, but it always resonated with me. When you think about it, we are responsible for what we do and what our future will become. No one else will be as affected by our actions and the results.

When we leave home and pursue our own careers, we have to decide what we want to do and what we have to do to get there. When we get that first, real job, we have a job description that outlines what our duties will be. Along with specific job requirements, there is almost always the added entry, "Other jobs as assigned." I have found this last job skill to be the one that makes the most impact. Going through the motions of the job can be done by anyone. Real impact comes when an employee goes beyond what the basic job is and looks at ways they can contribute to the company and other employees beyond what the basic job entails. I have always had a lot of respect for those that are organizers or those that are good at planning employee activities, lunches, recognition, or other morale related activities. That is not one of my skills.

My father often offered wise advice as I grew and began to go off on my own from jobs in high school, college, and eventually, my career. He often told me that I should be willing to do whatever I could, especially those things that others don't want to do. Following this advice has helped me to advance in my career and have extreme satisfaction in what I do. There is nothing like the feeling you get when you contribute in ways that others don't.

If you really want to feel successful in your job, don't just go through the motions. Learn about the company, what others do, and what is important to them, then see what you can do within your responsibilities to help others succeed. That is when you will feel real success and job satisfaction.

Don’t expect others to come to you and tell you what more you can do, be the best at your current position and reach out to find other ways to contribute. “If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me.”