We’ve all been there: neatly tucked into our job descriptions, completing tasks within the lines. But what if those lines are actually holding us back? Developers code, QAs test, and everyone moves the feature down the pipeline. That identity tends to come with unspoken limits.

The Role Trap:
As developers, we sometimes aim just to get the feature done: implement, test a bit, and ship. “The QA will catch it if there’s anything wrong.” Sound familiar? It’s not laziness — it’s role conditioning. We’ve been told who does what, and we stick to it.

This isn’t just a tech problem. Think about cricket. Every player has a defined role: batsmen bat, bowlers bowl, and all-rounders do a bit of both. Yet, how often have we seen a dedicated batsman step up to bowl a crucial over when the team needs it most? Or a bowler dig in to score vital runs at the end of an innings?

These aren’t their primary roles, but in that moment, their silent ownership of the team’s success drives them to act. Their unexpected effort often becomes the very reason for a win. We see this same powerful dynamic at play in the world of tech.

Job boundaries exist to keep teams aligned and efficient, and true progress comes when we challenge them with curiosity, ask the tough questions, step up with intention, and take ownership not just individually, but as a team.

Meet Bob:
Bob isn’t just a teammate — he’s an attitude. He’s the one who, while implementing a feature, thinks beyond the immediate ticket.

Rather than stopping at the task list, he asks, “What else could go wrong?” and makes sure to address it, even if it’s “not his job.” On your best day, Bob is you.

An Example We All Know:
You’re working on a feature that needs a data validation. You add it on the frontend — works great. QA tests it — passes. But you know deep down it’s not foolproof. A user with Postman or a faulty client could still break it.

No one might notice today — but you know.

So, you add the validation to the backend too. Not because anyone asked, but because you own the outcome. That isn’t just responsibility — it’s integrity. Without that backend validation, a future bug or security vulnerability is almost inevitable, potentially costing the company far more in fixes or reputation damage.

Why This Matters:
Ownership builds trust, prevents failures, and grows careers. It raises the bar across teams. When you work like Bob — even when no one’s watching — you become the kind of teammate who lifts the whole product.

Takeaway:
Being great at your role is expected. But being Bob means you don’t stop there. Bob could be any one of us. You build things that last. You care when no one’s looking. That mindset isn’t just rare — it’s transformative.