Why do we blame others instead of taking ownership?

Because fear plays a big part, and it's easier to blame others.

Blame culture festers in many organisations, without anyone aware of it. Blaming is one of the ways to justify undesirable behaviours that harm people in the workplace. When things go seriously wrong in a large company, it's easy to find a "scapegoat." to save face.

Blaming does not help everybody and does not help the situation. Individuals or teams can overcome the blame culture by simply taking ownership and being responsible for their actions. By changing the vocabulary  and not use terms like: "it's my fault", and say, "I take responsibility for the mistake in this project", and then provide relevant information without pointing the finger at someone.

You can create a happy work environment by taking ownership and responsibility for your actions. Fix it by confessing and apologising, asking for appropriate support, move forward. The outcome: learn from mistakes, aim to achieve high, and the organisation wins.

Leaders should aim to bring out the best in their workforce, and not put blame on them. Their team's performance is their responsibility. 

Remember to be compassionate.