In many workplaces, especially large teams or organisations, it’s common to fall into the mindset of “someone else will take care of it.” Whether it’s raising a concern, stepping up as an ally, or speaking out against unfair behaviour, we often assume another person is better equipped, more senior, or simply more responsible for taking action.
Psychologically, this is called ‘diffusion of responsibility’ where someone assumes responsibility on others and eventually no one might act on it. It acts as a barrier to meaningful actions in the workplace
How to move past it?
Recognise that it starts with you
Change does not need to happen all at once. Small changes and actions matter. Building small actions over time and consistently can help a large change happen over time. Whether it is checking in on a colleague, speaking up at a meeting, or reporting an event, your voice has power. You do not need a title or years of experience for it.
Ask “What if everyone stayed silent?”
When you feel tempted to step back, try reframing the situation. Ask yourself: If everyone waited for someone else, what would happen? This shift helps move the focus from “Why me?” to “Why not me?” Progress relies on employees willing to take the first step, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Ripple Effect
When one person speaks up, it creates space for others to do the same. Your action could be the permission someone else was waiting for. Courage is contagious, and often, all it takes is one person to shift the dynamic for the entire group.