There is safety in silence. There is no risk in being quiet and doing nothing. Ignoring problems may not make them go away but, at least, you are less likely to take the blame.

In fact, if they try, you can say you didn’t know about the problem and blame someone else instead. You were silent so how could they know the truth. Responsibility means action and that takes risk and, well, you don’t want that.

And, if you are called upon, just be quiet and stay still. Wait for someone else to raise their hand. It is far less likely you’ll be asked to do anything. Someone else will do all the work.

Oh, also, wait. Wait for someone else to tell you what to do. Then, only do that. Don’t do any more than asked. In fact, if you can get away with it, do less. Because, if you do more than that you might stand out. Others will think you are a troublemaker or brown-noser or that you are setting the bar too high. So, whatever you do, do it with the least amount of effort you can.

But, not a single one of these things will make your life better, let alone anyone else’s. Nor will any of these get you any further on any aspect of your life than you are right now. If you want anything to change, you have to speak up, take risks, be courageous, assume responsibility, take action, do more, and don’t wait.

Especially if you want to change the world. ¹

I’m a writer. Writing is how I make this world better, friendlier, stronger place. If these words improved your day, please let me know by contributing here.