🌱 Redefining Accountability - A Pathway to Growth

Definition of "Accountability"

In both personal and professional spaces, accountability can be a powerful driver of growth. But not all accountability is created equal. I recently had an interesting conversation with Francis Nicholls-Wunder, and discovered there are 2 distinct types: direct and indirect.

The Two Types of Accountability

Understanding these can unlock new avenues for success, creativity, and fulfilment in your journey—whether you're pursuing a personal goal or working on a collaborative project.

Hiking with boulder pads in Grampians. Photographed by Michelle EW.

Direct Accountability involves a clear, tangible goal. 🏃

Imagine you're training for a marathon. You commit to a training plan with a partner who expects updates on your progress. Here, accountability is straightforward—there's a defined outcome (completing the marathon) and a clear set of actions (daily runs, strength training, nutrition) leading to that outcome.

Indirect Accountability is more nuanced. 💭

It comes into play when the goal isn't as clearly defined, often in creative or exploratory endeavours. For example, NARU as a business is working to validate the value of its product. The steps to achieve this are not always obvious. In this context, accountability is about keeping momentum, staying unstuck, and committing to trying new approaches, even when the path forward isn't entirely clear. Success isn't measured by a binary of success or failure but by continuous movement and learning.

Harnessing "Accountability" in Work & Life

Why Accountability Matters

Accountability isn't just about hitting milestones—it's about committing to a journey, taking action, and reflecting on the outcomes. The fear of accountability often stems from the potential of failure, but true accountability detaches itself from success or failure. It's about movement, growth, and the courage to keep trying, regardless of the outcome.

“The courage to be vulnerable is not about winning or losing, it’s about the courage to show up when you can’t predict or control the outcome.”― Brené Brown, Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.

Reading Dare to Lead by Brene Brown in a cafe. Photographed by Michelle EW.

This is why we need to hold ourselves and others accountable. By committing to something in a public or semi-public space, we take the first step towards action. Then, by taking that action, we start to break down the barriers that hold us back.

Finally, by reflecting on our experiences, we can decide if it's worth continuing, pivoting, or trying something entirely new. Just like a lean start-up roadmap. 🚀

Finding (or Creating) Your Accountability Group

Whether you're seeking direct or indirect accountability, finding the right partners or groups is crucial.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Identify Your Needs: Are you looking for accountability in a specific area like fitness, career goals, or creative projects? Knowing what you need will help you find the right people to connect with.

2. Reach Out: Don’t be afraid to ask friends, colleagues, or even online communities if they’re interested in forming an accountability group. Explain the benefits of mutual support and shared goals.

3. Set Clear Expectations: For direct accountability, set specific goals and timelines. For indirect accountability, focus on maintaining momentum and regularly checking in on progress and challenges.

4. Create a Culture of Openness: Ensure your group fosters an environment where members can openly share their struggles and successes without fear of judgment. This is essential for building trust and staying committed to the journey.

5. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. If something isn’t effective, be open to changing your approach. The goal is to keep moving forward, not to achieve perfection.

A positive potato found at Redhill markets. Photographed by Michelle EW.

Share your story with us

Do you have an accountability partner? We are looking to feature stories of accountability in our Newsletter (and secret podcast). We would love for you to share your experience to inspire us. Perhaps you have an accountability partner in life who has helped you navigate a challenging project or achieve a personal goal. Tell us how this relationship pushed you to stay committed, even when the path wasn't clear, and how it contributed to your growth.

💬 Book a time to chat with Michelle