Get Going and Keep Going: accountability partners
These Accountability tips were included in Monique Hodgkinson’s blog, A Stable Solution. Check her out–she is putting some great ideas out there for newbies to small business.
I am more accountable to others than to myself. Seriously. Yes, I’m a coach, advisor and all-around whip cracker. But I need help keeping my projects going while I help you with yours. SO, about 5 years ago, a few friends started an Accountability Group. We met weekly and shared ideas for, success stories about and roadblocks to our projects and goals. Over the years, I have taught many groups, organizations and pairs how to use the Accountability Process. It has worked tremendously for me, my clients and I trust will for you, too.
My intention here is to encourage folks to be accountable to their own projects with others who help us stay honest, on track and in motion. The goal of an accountability partner or group is not only to get feedback (if you want it), share resources and ideas but mostly to give you an opportunity to report your progress, celebrate accomplishments and set (and KEEP) realistic goals for yourself.
Here’s a brief how-to get started with a partner or a group (if you get it are ready to skip right to the worksheet, click here).
1. Be choosy about your partners.
This may be a no-brainer, so bear with me. You may be friends, but may not be ideal accountability partners. Does the person you are considering show up? Do what they say they will do? Have a critical (constructive) eye? Will they give you honest feedback? Are they a positive person?
2. Communicate early and often.
Ever notice how you may start a group or partner with someone, then it fizzles out with no warning? It’s critical with an accountability process that it works for you and all involved. Check in periodically with the group or your partner and ask: how’s this working for you? Are you getting what you need? Do you need to re-evaluate when/where you are checking in? is one person hosting all the time? Is the hour of the meeting still working for everyone?
3. Use a clear process:
It can be as simple as a 15-minute phone or quick email check in at the end of a day or on a deadline. Agree on when you’ll check in with your partner or meet with your group. Show up on time and be clear: what did you intend to get done? Did you do it? Do you want feedback or support (be specific about what you want from others)? And clearly state the next step or deadline. The process can change over time and each person may put their own twist on it—don’t get stuck in a process that isn’t serving everyone involved.
Get going! Click here for your Accountabilty Check-In Sheet. Use it, change it, make it work for you. Let me know if you adapt it and how so I can share it here. Big thanks to Elektra Grant, who hosted the first Accountability Group, developed the original check in worksheet and has championed me as I continue to pursue my passion of helping YOU help yourself.
So…how do you stay accountable? Who helps keep you accountable? Let me know in the comments.
