When we’re working together … tension, suspicion, and resentment are corrosive.

So the more honesty, clarity, and accountability we can offer, the better.

We often see this in team sports. A play goes pear-shaped and the player responsible immediately pats her chest to indicate: That’s on me. My fault.

And that simple acknowledgement helps everyone to immediately move forward. There’s no debriefing, ruminating, or analysis. (Maybe that comes later.) For now, a simple “that’s on me” clears the slate for a reset and a restart.

Accepting responsibility isn’t a burdening; it’s an unburdening.