Help With That

Ever noticed how some days you feel like you are flying? Firing through the to-do list, handling things and on top of life? Then the next day it feels like you are stuck? It is rarely about motivation, it’s usually about accountability.

Last week, as a peer group, we helped a fellow entrepreneur with exactly this. They were stuck in that cycle. They had an incredible business plan and a wonderful concept. However, they made every excuse under the sun when it came to taking the leap.

What they needed wasn’t someone to just nod and listen, they needed some accountability. Something that would gently, but firmly, hold them to their word.

Why Accountability Matters More Than You Think.

When you are working for yourself or the one in charge, it is so easy to move your own deadlines. (Or just not have deadlines).

“I will do that tomorrow.” “Maybe next week”, “I’ll get to that when I’m less busy”. Sound familiar?

Without accountability:

• Tasks drift
• Amazing ideas are consigned to notes pages
• The gap between what you want and what you do gets wider

With accountability:

• You stay focused
• You get realistic about your time
• You make actual progress (and feel so much better for it)

Most importantly it’s not about pressure or shame. It’s about having someone (or something) that helps you get the things done. The things you know you need to do.

How to Build Accountability Into Your Life (Without Making It Painful)

Accountability Partner:

Find someone you trust (a fellow business owner, friend, peer group, mentor) and agree regular check ins. Share your goals, set your deadlines and then stick to them. No judgment, just honest conversations.

Public Declarations

This one is not for everyone. However, sometimes announcing your intentions in public, (like at a small networking group or family BBQ) , can light the right type of fire.

Tools and Apps

Trello, Asana or a new one for me this week Miro. Or stick to what works for you and diarise your deadlines. Start with the overall project and then break it down into the individual tasks that need to be done. Set the (realistic) deadlines and then stick to them.

Bring in Support

Whether it’s a coach, a network group or a Virtual Assistant (Hi) Sometimes the best accountability is paid for. Having someone in your corner, whose literal job it is to keep you on track, can be a game changer.

Reward Yourself

Accountability isn’t all about the stick, it’s also about the carrot. Celebrate your wins, even the small ones. (Especially the small ones.)

The Bottom Line

You don’t need more guilt, you just need better systems. With a little caring accountability, to get you where you want to get to. Because you already know what you need to do, you just need a little help actually doing it.

Ready to get some Help With That? Let me know.