QBQ!: Redefining “Victim”
As a salesperson, trainer, speaker, and author since 1986, I know how easy it is to complicate a message. I’ve done it.
I also know, as I’m sure you do, that when it comes to “free speech” and a democratic system, it can get messy. Opinions, theories, ideas, and “political positions” can become confused, twisted—and self-serving. We have media that will do just about anything to pull in one more viewer, set of eyeballs, or long-term subscriber. But, let’s give the media the benefit of the doubt by admitting truth: It’s our human nature that makes us want to turn to watch the “car crash of human life” that’s within our sight. In other words, we are both fascinated by and feel compassion for … The Victim.
But now it’s time to unwind and uncomplicate this whole “I’m a victim!” mantra that has crept insidiously, dangerously, and destructively into our society. Here we go:
• If I am mugged on the street, I am a victim. If my employer reduces my benefits, I am not a victim.
• If a tornado knocks my house down, I am a victim. If someone makes more money than I do, I am not a victim
• If the nearby river rises and my home now sits under water, I am a victim. If my bank charges ATM fees, I am not a victim.
• If a thief steals my 60″ flat screen, I am a victim. If I cannot afford a 60″ flat screen but my neighbor can, I am not a victim.
• If “the plague” strikes my family, I am a victim. If my employer won’t pay for my continuing education, I am not a victim.
• If a Black Mamba escapes from the zoo and enters my home, biting me on the ankle and I am sick for months—I am a victim!!! But, if I am a new college grad with large school loans—I am not a victim.
To be blunt, there isn’t much in life that justifies me throwing a Pity Party for One. What is justified is working hard to eradicate this “everybody’s a victim” mentality that abounds, because when I play victim I serve no one.
Not even myself.
The cure for victim thinking is simple: Personal Accountability.
Just ask QBQ’s such as, “What can I do to contribute?” “How can I be my best today?” and “What can I do to own my decisions?” These powerful questions will move me forward. And when I move forward, I stay out of the unproductive and wasteful trap of victim thinking.
John G. Miller
Author/Speaker
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Jim Strutton, CEO
Accountability Plus
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