Responsibility — Lesson 3

Verse

Transliteration

karmaṇy evādhikāras te mā phaleṣu kadācana
mā karma-phala-hetur bhūr mā te saṅgo'stv akarmaṇi

Meaning

You have a choice over action alone, never over the results. Do not take yourself to be the sole cause of the results, and do not fall into inaction.

Key Words

• karmaṇi — action
• adhikāraḥ — choice, control
• phaleṣu — results
• karma-phala — result of action
• saṅgaḥ — attachment
• akarmaṇi — inaction

Teaching

This is one of the most important teachings. You have control over what you do, not over what comes out of it. Results depend on many factors — effort, environment, timing, and others. When we expect full control over results, we create stress and disappointment. Krishna says: focus on right action. This does not mean “results do not matter.” Results matter, because action should be thoughtful and responsible. The teaching is: do not depend on the result for your inner stability. Do not tie your identity or peace to the outcome. And do not avoid action out of fear of failure.

Connection to Responsibility

Responsibility means doing your part fully. It does not mean controlling everything. When I understand my role correctly, I act with commitment, care, and preparation, but without making the result the basis of my worth. This is the foundation of karma yoga.

Reflection

In my actions, am I focused more on results or on doing what is right? What changes if I shift my focus to action alone?