Webster’s Definition: an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions
The word “accountability” seems to be getting more and more air time as you look around the world of business (and politics) these days.
The problem is that most of the focus is usually outside of the person looking for more accountability!
As enlightened servant leaders, let us do a quick exercise to identify the one place in this world where accountability actually begins. I want you to peer into a window, monitor, or mirror that is close at hand -- really look deeply – whoever is peering back at you is the true source of accountability. You!
As with everything associated with leadership, accountability is an inside-out process. How can we, as enlightened servant leaders, expect others to value the process of accountability if we do not demonstrate how we value that process ourselves?
As a collective, let us not fall into the false thinking that accountability is only associated with deadlines, tasks, dashboards, and any other way we measure productivity. As leaders, we must hold ourselves accountable for EVERYTHING we think and do!
You, and you alone, have the ability to control your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Whether you actually hold yourself accountable for exerting that control, rather than externalizing that ability, is another issue entirely.
Do you hold yourself accountable for your words and actions, insuring alignment with your values? Do you actively accept responsibility for expressing those values and providing space for those around you to express theirs?
Has your organization adopted accountability as a cornerstone of its culture? If yes, how is that expressed?
Utilizing the principle of accountability within our lives provides us a tool to insure we are living in a manner in which our purpose will be fulfilled.
Accountability keeps us on the right path.
Are you on the right path?
Greg Styles
Director of Special Projects
Executive Coaching University
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