What would you do if someone asked you to do a very important and time consuming task to accomplish something that is of value to you, your family, your work, and/or your community? I hope your answer is “It depends…“

Years ago I was asked to chair an ethics hearing board for my professional organization. I debated about accepting. I knew the job was very important and very challenging, and that I wasn‘t certain I could do it well. I also knew it would take a lot of time and energy.

I was working on my doctorate and my parents were ill. I agreed to serve on the board, but not as chairperson. Another time I was again asked to chair another ethics hearing, and this time I accepted the challenge. My circumstances had changed.

It‘s easy to agree to do something important, just because someone asks you to do it. It‘s also easy to automatically refuse to try a challenging project because you are unsure about your ability to do it perfectly. What do you need to consider before you give your answer?

First answer the practical questions. Do you have the time, knowledge, resources and support you need? Then go to your intuition. Am I attracted to this job or repelled by it? Am I excited, scared or resigned?

Imagine how you will feel when you have accomplished the project. Will you be exhausted, elated, proud, resentful or sorry? Imagine how you will feel if you refuse to undertake the project? Will you be relieved, ashamed or indifferent? Imagine telling someone who cares about you that you have taken on or turned down the project.

Think about your answers to these questions when you decide whether it makes sense for you to agree to accept the task and the responsibility.

Is this you? “I don’t need therapy, but I could use some advice about…”

[tags]Workplace Relationships, Self Help, Self-Improvement, Personal Growth[/tags]