Topic of the day
Accountability
Plan > Focus > Execute
Be more efficient at work and spend time doing the things you love.
I don't know about you, but accountability is the one thing that guarantees I'll get things done.
Here's an example:
A couple of years ago I needed to lose weight and get in shape. Over he winter I’d let things go a little. My clothes were feeling a bit tighter than I'd like. It was clear what I needed to do.
My local gym was having a promotion so I signed up and got a fitness coach. He was great. He showed me how to build an exercise program and ensured my form was good but most importantly, he made sure I showed up.
The funny thing was, he didn’t really have to do anything to make me show up. When I knew one of our twice-weekly sessions was on the calendar I never skipped.
No cancellations, no excuses.
And it worked. I got into shape and built some muscle. I felt great and my clothes started to fit a bit better!
But it’s not like that for me all the time.
When I’m not in a coaching program, my workouts vary and sometimes I’m just not in the mood. I’ve learned to get comfortable with this, but I know if I really pushed I could make the effort to go.
So what’s different?
For me - knowing someone is expecting me to show up is a powerful motivator.
I’ve realised this doesn’t just apply to workouts. In my work setting, when I’m part of a team then I don’t want to let others down. These are the benefits external accountability has for me:
- Beating procrastination: Knowing others are relying on me creates a sense of urgency.
- Improved focus: The important and urgent tasks get done. I minimise distractions and focus on the work.
- Succeed together: Working as part of a team creates a sense of community and support.
This sounds great and being held to account by others can help for sure. So why don’t we do it more often? What holds us back from using this powerful tool?
Here are three reasons that I’ve encountered:
- Fear of Commitment: Hesitation to commit to deadlines and goals. Perhaps driven by a worry of failing or maybe being judged if you don’t deliver.
- Perceived Loss of Autonomy: Feeling like external accountability limits freedom.
- Belief they can do it alone: Achieving a goal on your own is somehow better.
My position here is simple advice: Tackle your objections head on and make the most of any opportunity to get some external accountability in your routine.
Here’s how you can get started:
Find an Accountability Partner/Group: Just ask some colleagues, friends, or even your manager. Tell them that you’re looking for help. Explain that you’d like to schedule regular check-ins and see if they’ll be willing to buddy up. Share tasks and deadlines as part of the process.
I recently read the book “The 12 Week Year” (link) and this has a strong focus on building an accountability group, along with lots of examples of why it’s so successful.
Consider a Professional Coach or Mentor: Most companies will help you find a mentor or you can find a professional coach to help. As in my training example, when you’re paying someone there is added motivation. However, the most important part is that they’ve had structured training and know how to guide you.
I found a good article online about finding a coach here (link).
One thing to consider - coaching isn't just for people who know they need help. They're for top performers too. Those at the top of their game do better with coaching.
Have you worked with a coach? Are you looking for someone? If you need help let me know - I have some great recommendations!
Have a great week!
Did you enjoy this issue? If you think someone else might benefit please consider sharing it with them. Also, if you have any comments or questions then I’d love to hear from you. Either email me or send a DM on LinkedIn.
Thank you for subscribing, have a great weekend, and I’ll see you next week.
Mike
