Action Quote by Jeffrey Pfeffer
“One cannot control the actions of others, but we are responsible for what we do. People say things such as, "I can't do this," "it is not really me," "this makes me uncomfortable," etc. People, simply put, opt out of playing the game or doing so in a way that will make them successful. So get over yourself, and do what you need to do - and what, by the way, others around you are doing, to become more powerful.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Power: Why Some People Have It—and Others Don't by Jeffrey Pfeffer, 2010
We cannot control others, but we control our responses; taking responsibility for actions, not excuses, builds personal power and success.
In simple terms: Own your actions; excuses limit growth.
Key Takeaway
Take responsibility, act decisively.
Themes
responsibility
personal power
accountability
Mood
determined
pragmatic
Type
motivational
practical
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- team projects
- personal development
- entrepreneurship
Key Concepts
self‑efficacy
leadership
behavioral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What excuses do you make that hinder progress?
- How can you turn responsibility into influence?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on self‑reliance can ignore systemic barriers.
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