The Importance of Accountability
Let’s talk about accountability—many people come to me for this aspect of coaching. We set goals, make to-do lists, and may even know what needs to be done—so why is accountability so important?
Having a coach allows you to have someone who not only holds space and compassion for you to explore what challenges you, and your ideas, in depth—but also to create a rhythm in the relationship. When you reach a roadblock, there is someone to turn to. When you don’t feel like completing your action steps, you know that next week on your coaching call, we’re going to tackle why—and for whatever reason, as humans, it’s much harder to let others down than ourselves.
Life happens, and I hold so much grace for the people I work with. Sometimes, completing your actionable elements isn’t attainable due to your circumstances—but maintaining your routine and the skills you’ve developed to date is. This allows you to hold yourself with more grace and regroup.
I’ve included some tips below on how you can find an accountability partner, commit to the process, and ensure it helps you reach your goals faster:
Who could be your ideal accountability partner?
Find someone you work with.
Find someone who has the same challenges as you.
Find someone you see regularly.
Find a coach.
Ask a friend.
Ask a family member.
What is important about this person?
They understand the importance of accountability.
You must be clear on what you expect of each other and the frequency of check-ins.
They must be someone you trust.
They must hold compassion and understanding for your journey—and their own.
They must be willing to put in the work, give feedback to one another, and reflect.
How to get started and be clear on what you want to be held accountable for:
Find your accountability partner.
Set a SMART goal—you can do this together over coffee or on your own and then share.
Create check-ins—whether through texts, emails, photos, or calls—to ensure you remain consistent.
Determine how you’re going to track your progress—whether it’s the number of calls (if looking to grow your network), number of steps (if hoping to walk more), or meals eaten at home (if working on budgeting and saving by eating out less).
Figure out what works best for both of you to celebrate your wins—whether it’s buying yourself a treat, getting a massage, going out for a meal, or doing an activity you love.
Set up monthly or quarterly check-ins to assess your goals. Are they working? Do you need to amend them? Have they been achieved? What’s next? This is a time to reflect on your progress, growth, and change—and find ways to challenge one another to expand to your greatest potential.
I’d say nothing feels better than achieving your goals—but achieving them and supporting and watching someone else reach theirs, and having them cheer you on, is the icing on the cake.
