Have you ever pondered the profound distinction between merely fulfilling your duties and wholeheartedly embracing the Responsibility that comes with them?
The Bhagavad Gita’s Wisdom on Duty and Responsibility
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna imparts profound advice to Arjuna, urging him to fulfill his duty as a warrior. Arjuna, initially hesitant to engage in the Mahabharat war, grapples with the conflict of harming his relatives. Arjuna was struggling with moral issues. Krishna convinces Arjuna that as a warrior, it is his duty to fight a righteous war, even if the consequences of the war could be painful, and enlightens him about distinguishing between Responsibility and duty.
Duty is an obligation and could be related to an individual’s role or occupation. It also has a legal and moral binding. In contrast, Responsibility is an option that is either assumed, voluntarily accepted, or promised by an individual and is inherent to his/her job or role. If the individual accepts Responsibility, the person has to be accountable for completing the work.
Duty in Professional Life
As professionals, we are tethered to the duties inherent in our jobs. These duties, essential to our roles, require unwavering commitment — the outcomes of our work hinge on the dedication we bring to our duties. Conversely, Responsibility, though not binding, entails personal accountability for the results, transcending mere duty.
If we don’t do our duty, we can be punished for not doing it. But Responsibility cannot be commanded; therefore, one cannot be punished if one refuses to take Responsibility.
Regrettably, some employees perform their duties without genuine commitment, shirking Responsibility and offering excuses for their failures. The divergence between duty and Responsibility becomes evident in their actions.
Fulfilling responsibilities goes beyond mere obligations; it resonates deeply with our consciousness. When we actively take on responsibilities, we honor external commitments and nurture an internal sense of accountability and moral duty.
Let’s explore how assuming responsibilities contributes to a more conscientious and purposeful life.
Personal Narratives Illustrating the Dichotomy
1. A Dedicated Team Leader’s Initiative
In my previous workplace, a skilled Team Leader went beyond the call of duty. While software testing was his primary Responsibility, he voluntarily took on the Responsibility of training his team in automated testing. This initiative, not obligatory but driven by personal accountability, significantly enhanced the team’s performance.
2. A Doctor’s Noble Responsibility
My father, a doctor ,exemplified the distinction between duty and responsibility.While prescribing medicines to patients was his duty, he also assumed the Responsibility of providing free medicines to those who couldn’t afford them. His commitment extended beyond duty, ensuring the well-being of his patients.
3. Mother with professional duty and children’s responsibilities
My neighbor Sara, a dedicated executive with a company, works from home. At 2 pm, her 3-year-old son returns from his play school and climbs into Sara’s lap, seeking the warmth of her embrace. In this tender moment, the distinction between duty and Responsibility unfolded. Sara’s duty as an executive was clear — meeting deadlines, handling projects, and contributing to her team’s success. Yet, as her child nestled in her arms, a different dimension emerged — the Responsibility of being a caring and present mother.
The Gita’s Teachings on Results and Commitment
The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes performing one’s duty with unwavering commitment, irrespective of the results. While duty performed with dedication and Responsibility typically yields positive outcomes, instances of unexpected results should not deter one’s commitment to the task at hand.
Nurturing a Responsible Consciousness
Striking a balance between duty and Responsibility is paramount in life. Merely fulfilling duties while neglecting responsibilities is insufficient. The Gita teaches us to nurture a responsible consciousness, remaining committed to our causes and duties.
Conclusion: Embracing Duty and Responsibility
The Bhagavad Gita is a timeless guide, teaching us to embrace our duties with commitment and shoulder responsibilities with accountability. Combining duty and responsibility in life makes for a meaningful and purpose-driven journey.