Many people and leaders confuse the mental states of obligation and responsibility. Obligation is the mindset of “have to, don’t want to.” In this state one’s performance is barely adequate to get a pass. One resents the trap they are in and demonstrates resistance. Responsibility is the mindset of self-empowerment. One feels they are freely choosing their life and work. High performance follows, as does happiness. As a leader… Notice your feelings of obligation about your life and work, and the impact to performance and happiness. What do your charges learn when you demonstrate obligation, i.e., “I have no choice. I have to”? How can you lead from and demonstrate responsibility and nurture your charge’s experience of responsibility?