Before it’s your job

When something goes wrong, three things usually follow.

Someone does nothing. Someone takes advantage. Someone steps in.

We like to think those moments are about courage. Or values. Or character.

They aren’t.

By the time it happens, the important decision is already over.

Somewhere earlier — on an ordinary day — a quieter decision was made: This probably won’t be my job.

Or: If it is, I’ll be ready.

No announcement. No drama. Just a private assumption about what kind of burden you’re willing to carry.

When pressure shows up, it doesn’t change anyone. It only exposes what was already decided.

And when the moment arrives, there is no choosing left. Only that decision showing up.