The Responsibility Ethic

About the Author

Adam Kreek is a distinguished management consultant, executive coach, and motivational speaker known for his profound insights into leadership and personal development. A former Olympic rower, Kreek has earned his place in the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame and boasts an impressive collection of 60 international medals, including an Olympic gold medal. Leveraging his experiences in competitive sports, Kreek has transitioned into the business world, where he has coached and trained teams at major corporations such as Microsoft, General Electric, and Mercedes-Benz. His book "The Responsibility Ethic: 12 Strategies Exceptional People Use to Do the Work and Make Success Happen" encapsulates his philosophy on taking responsibility and making deliberate, ethical choices to achieve success in all aspects of life.

Main Idea

"The Responsibility Ethic" by Adam Kreek is a comprehensive guide that emphasizes the power of personal responsibility in achieving success. The book outlines 12 key strategies that encourage individuals to take control of their actions, face challenges head-on, and live a life characterized by intentional choices and ethical behavior. Kreek's insights span various aspects of life, including overcoming fear of failure, goal setting, leadership, stress management, professionalism, and communication. By adopting these strategies, readers can transform their lives, achieve greater fulfillment, and inspire others to do the same.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: Why Responsibility?
• Take Responsibility for Your Fear of Failure
• Take Responsibility for Your Goals
• Take Responsibility for Sharing Leadership
• Take Responsibility for Your Stress
• Take Responsibility for Your Professionalism
• Take Responsibility for Your Recovery
• Take Responsibility for Your Coaching and Mentoring
• Take Responsibility for the People in Your Boat
• Take Responsibility for Your Safety (and the Safety of Others)
• Take Responsibility for Your Communication
• Take Responsibility for Your Resilience
• Conclusion: Courage and Continuation

Introduction: Why Responsibility?

In the introduction, Adam Kreek sets the stage by challenging the common notion of merely "following your dreams." He argues that while dreams are vital, they must be paired with a strong sense of responsibility and actionable plans. Kreek introduces the "responsibility ethic," a concept that emphasizes the need for individuals to take charge of their lives by making deliberate and ethical decisions. This ethic is about more than just achieving success; it's about building a life that aligns with one's values and aspirations.

"We must transform our dreams into a vision and a plan, then move into action. Take responsibility. Take action. Be a person who makes happiness and success happen." - Adam Kreek

Kreek encourages readers to develop a strong internal locus of control, where they see themselves as the primary drivers of change in their lives. He stresses the importance of building a supportive environment, seeking mentors, and continually taking proactive steps toward achieving one's goals.

Take Responsibility for Your Fear of Failure

Kreek delves into the common fear of failure that often hinders people from pursuing their goals. He explains that failure is a natural and necessary part of the learning process. Instead of allowing fear to paralyze them, individuals should use it as a stepping stone to growth and improvement. Kreek advises separating emotions from facts when reflecting on failures to gain a clearer understanding of what went wrong and how to improve.