Over the course of my professional journey, I have arrived at an unconventional yet profound realization. While Experience, Competency, and Integrity are often hailed as the cornerstones of professional excellence, I have found that none of these qualities are the ultimate measure of a person’s suitability for a role in an organization. Experience, for instance, might merely reflect the passage of time rather than meaningful growth or contribution. Similarly, competency, though critical, can falter in the absence of the right motivation or direction. Even integrity, the hallmark of character, can prove inadequate if it is not paired with the wisdom to navigate complex situations. For me, the single most critical professional attribute is a deep and unwavering 'Sense of Responsibility' (Ahsaas-e-Zimadari). This trait, more than any other, defines an individual’s capacity to succeed in any role. A person imbued with a genuine sense of responsibility takes ownership of their tasks, embraces accountability, and prioritizes outcomes over excuses. Such individuals may lack certain technical skills or industry-specific knowledge at the outset, but their commitment to delivering results compels them to learn, adapt, and persevere until the job is done ! #Sense_of_Responsibility #Success #Right_Person
Well said Fahad. Appreciate your perspective. But how about sense of responsibility in addition to all 3 attributes above expertise with integrity and competence? Wouldn't your boss feel insecure?
Experience is not merely the passage of time .... it is the number of events to which one is exposed and that's the opposite of a reactive personality. Competency works best during the early period of one's career. Thereafter, it is perseverance, loyalty, and all about putting one's experience to use even if it means simply learning from it. Integrity is the epitome of professionalism and leadership. There is no integrity without a strong sense of responsibility.
Please also remember that Professional excellence and Monetary rewards do not corelate. Sometimes they do, sometimes they do not, occasionally they have inverse relation, so it is more of random (the home you are born). At times personal Experience, Competency, and Integrity attract attentions of foul players in the organization keeping you in "limits". People with Sense of Responsibility are loaded with more and more burden and continue to do work of others till they break.
Competency may lighten the "Ahsaas e Zamadari", which should also b kept in mind ...
I think all attributes should be equally judged. In priority Competency is very important among all because fitness test for the right position is important to pass.
Obviously take it seriously but don't get consumed by it. You are much more then any task
I couldn’t agree more with your well articulated points. When a perso is transitioning from responsibility to ownership, along with other vital traits, resonates deeply. It indeed highlights one’s capacity to excel in diverse situations.
Well said Fahad. 💯
Great perspective
Chief Operations Officer
4wWhat about work life balance myth :) ……. the one which very few stand to give up