The Death of Accountability: Everyone declares Ownership, But Nobody truly possesses It
In a world where knowledge is easily accessible, one would assume that experts would take charge with assurance. Employees and freelancers are avoiding making decisions and waiting for approvals on the small details. Why do you need someone else to sign off on your work if you’re the expert?
The Vanishing Act of Proactive Thinking
The days of employees solving problems and making decisions are over. It’s now all about holding hands and being constantly backed up. What’s the outcome? Projects stagnate, innovation tanks, and businesses waste time on a loop. The professionals who were once supposed to address issues are now encumbered by the need for approval, fearing to act without caution
The Paradox
I used to think that this was a corporate issue, particularly in countries like Italy where labor laws make it almost impossible to terminate employees. However, when I started working with freelancers from different countries, I realized the truth. Whether I am not the CTO and requested to approve security documents, or an SEO expert inquires about the timing of articles, it is typical to see some advertising but not others
Despite being self-starters, freelancers frequently behave as employees and anticipate guidance rather than creating solutions. At the same time, staff members enforce their titles upon making calls. They entrust their contributions to management when it’s time. The reason is simple: “It’s easier to complain about a decision than taking responsibility for it.”
Are people afraid of Making Mistakes?
The real problem could be the fear of making mistakes. In a world where every mistake is scrutinized and held against you, it’s safer to push for better decisions than to be wrong. Professionals assume the responsibility instead of taking action
We need individuals who are not just doers but also thinkers. It’s not just individuals who refuse to take responsibility, but also the systemic nature of this situation. To be truly expert, one must possess expertise in addition to being knowledgeable about the subject. Do I stand alone in noticing it?