As a leader, it’s important to remember this simple truth: you can’t (and shouldn’t) do everything yourself. Delegation isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a hallmark of strong, effective leadership. The best leaders know how to delegate not just to lighten their own load, but to develop and empower their teams.

Taking things personally in the workplace can be deeply detrimental to both your performance and your professional relationships. While it’s natural to feel emotional or affected by what others say or do, internalizing every piece of feedback, criticism, or perceived slight can lead to burnout, frustration, and a sense of isolation. It can make you appear defensive, overly sensitive, or lacking in confidence — characteristics that may hinder your growth and prevent you from taking on leadership opportunities. At its core, taking things personally means assuming that everything negative is somehow a direct attack on your character or capabilities, even when that’s not the case.

What is keeping you from accomplishing your goals? Is it time? The economy? Lack of support from others? Co-workers not doing their part? 

It's easy to blame others. But looking outside of yourself is a strategic error. The most important lesson you must understand is that you are 100 percent responsible for your life – the good and the bad. 

That's where this formula comes in:

E + R = O (Events + Responses = Outcome)

Have you ever shared your hopes, dreams and goals with someone, only to have them laugh at you or tell you it can't be done? Never listen to the critics. 

If your goals are true to your heart, you have all you need inside you. Nobody needs to motivate you and nobody can stand in your way.